ESPN's Bill Barnwell projected that Darnold will sign a contract worth an annual average of $46 million that will include around $90 million guaranteed if he hits free agency. That, combined with Fowler's report that McCarthy will be the franchise QB moving forward, all but settles the discussion of Darnold returning to Minnesota next season.

The Minnesota Vikings are at a crossroads when it comes to their starting quarterback for the 2025 NFL season, and a new factor has emerged that could influence their decision between Sam Darnold, J.J.

I must give ESPN's Bill Barnwell credit for how succinctly he described Sam Darnold's contract situation. He has the Minnesota Vikings starting quarterback as a