Dec 22, 2024; Seattle, Washington, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold (14) celebrates following a victory against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images

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NFL Free Agency Rumors: Cleveland Browns eyeing Vikings’ QB Sam Darnold

Browns eye Sam Darnold for 2025?

The Cleveland Browns need a quarterback. Their current situation is not great. Deshaun Watson is expensive and underperforming. Cutting him isn’t an option with his contract. Dorian Thompson-Robinson isn’t ready to start, and Jameis Winston’s turnovers kill momentum. So, they’re shopping.

Why the ‘Sam Darnold’ move makes sense?

Sam Darnold isn’t the same guy you remember from the Jets. In Minnesota, he’s thrived. Under Kevin O’Connell, Darnold has led the Vikings to a 12-2 record. He’s thrown for 3,776 yards, 32 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions with a 67.2% completion rate. That’s not just good—it’s franchise-QB good. The Browns could use someone like that.

The #Browns will “undoubtedly explore” current #Vikings QB Sam Darnold if he hits the open market this offseason, @MaryKayCabot wrote via https://t.co/Zft4kM7NIb

“If the Browns could get their hands on a QB like that who’s still in the prime of his career at age 27, it would be… pic.twitter.com/EFKJBvt2PU
— VikingzFanPage (@vikingzfanpage) December 24, 2024

Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com broke the story:

“If the Vikings are willing to part with Sam Darnold, who’s led the team to a 12-2 record this season, he’s certainly the kind of veteran the Browns would be looking for in 2025 — someone who could come in and win for them right away.”

Darnold’s style fits Cleveland’s system. It’s not perfect—Cleveland doesn’t have Minnesota’s weapons—but the offensive approach is similar enough to make it work.

The Browns’ Draft Dilemma

Cleveland’s draft position complicates things. Sitting at the fifth overall pick, they’re likely out of range for top prospects like Shedeur Sanders or Cam Ward. Trading up costs assets they don’t have. If they can’t secure a long-term option in the draft, they’ll need a bridge quarterback. That’s where Darnold comes in.

What happens if the Vikings don't want to let Sam Darnold walk…? 💭#NFL | #Browns | #Vikings pic.twitter.com/sEgPCx89lJ
— betJACK (@betJACK) December 23, 2024

The snag is, well, money. The Browns are in a cap mess. Signing Darnold to a long-term deal won’t be easy. They’ll have to compete with other teams who are likely more flexible financially. Can Cleveland make a convincing offer? Maybe, but it’ll take some maneuvering.

Will Darnold even consider Cleveland?

This part’s tricky. Darnold rebuilt his career in Minnesota after rough stints with the Jets and Panthers. He’s finally in a good spot. Would he risk that for a team with less stability and fewer weapons? it remains unclear.

Image: Imagn Images

Cleveland Browns

Sam Darnold

Natasha Bose

I write about sports because, well, it brings in the big bucks! I’m not some lifelong analyst or stats guru, truth being told, you’ve probably never heard of me!—I just know how to research, write, and make things sound good. That’s the job!
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