Vikings Have One Clear Priority at Quarterback in 2025

The Minnesota Vikings have three first-round quarterbacks on their roster: Sam Darnold, Daniel Jones and J.J. McCarthy.

The Vikings selected McCarthy with the No. 10 pick in the 2023 draft. However, the rookie suffered a torn meniscus in the preseason that ended his year in August.

Darnold has exceeded expectations on his one-year contract in Minnesota, leading the Vikings to a 13-2 record while throwing for 3,776 yards, 32 touchdowns and 11 interceptions before Week 17.

The Vikings signed Jones after the New York Giants cut him on Nov. 22, giving Minnesota an experienced backup quarterback for the playoffs and another option for the team to sign in the offseason. 

However, Darnold's exceptional play has put the Vikings in a unique situation. Eventually, Minnesota will want to see what McCarthy can do as a starter. But it's not easy to move on from a quarterback like Darnold who could lead the Vikings on a deep playoff run. 

Darnold was given a $10 million contract before the season, but his asking price will go up before next September. Minnesota could let the 27-year-old walk, sign him or apply the franchise tag (and potential trade) in the offseason.

Regardless of who they choose, it appears the Vikings will not have Darnold, Jones and McCarthy on their sideline in 2025. 

Per The Athletic's Dianna Russini, Minnesota would like to keep Darnold on the roster.

"They spent a first-round pick on J.J. McCarthy last spring and Darnold is in for a big payday in March," Russini wrote. "Despite that, after conversations with a team source, one thing is clear: The Vikings want Darnold back in Minnesota for 2025."