Sam Darnold Reveals 'Tough' Reasoning for Leaving Vikings

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Sam Darnold Reveals 'Tough' Reasoning for Leaving Vikings

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Evan Massey | Last updated Mar 14, 2025 7:00 AM ET

The Minnesota Vikings were rumored to have interest in bringing Sam Darnold back this offseason. Even with J.J. McCarthy waiting in the wings, the Vikings had considered the option of continuing forward with Darnold following a big 2024 season.

Back in February, head coach Kevin O'Connell spoke out about Darnold. He was still hopeful about the idea of bringing the 27-year-old quarterback back to Minnesota.

"So he's earned the right to be a free agent, but we will continue to have ongoing dialogue and discussions with him and his representation, as well as being really excited about J.J. McCarthy and where he's at in his rehab," O'Connell said.

He provided a clear understanding that the Vikings could lose Darnold, but that the team was discussing the idea of keeping him in town.

Darnold ended up agreeing to a three-year, $100.5 million contract with the Seattle Seahawks in NFL free agency.

Following his decision to sign with the Seahawks, Darnold has spoken out about his "tough" choice to leave Minnesota.

“It was incredibly tough [to leave the Vikings]. I wanted to make it work and do everything I could to stay there. But at the end of the day, this is a business and they got to do what’s best for them, I gotta do what’s best for me,” Darnold said.

“I’m so thankful, I’m so grateful for the people that I met in Minnesota. Obviously, the coaching staff, my teammates. I can’t thank them enough for the time that I spent with them.”

During the 2024 season, Darnold threw for 4,319 yards, 35 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions while completing 66.2% of his passes.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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