Vikings face QB dilemma: McCarthy trade or Darnold commitment?
The Minnesota Vikings find themselves at a crossroads regarding their quarterback situation. Sam Darnold’s strong season has solidified him as a key player, but the future of first-round pick J.J. McCarthy remains uncertain. ESPN’s Adam Schefter noted that teams are expected to “definitely” inquire about McCarthy’s availability this offseason.
Sam Darnold has delivered an impressive 2024 season, throwing for 4,153 yards, 35 touchdowns, and maintaining a 68.1% completion rate over 16 starts. At just 27 years old, Darnold appears to be entering his prime, and the Vikings are reportedly keen on bringing him back. According to The Athletic’s Dianna Russini, Minnesota plans to retain Darnold for 2025, likely through the franchise tag, which is projected to cost $41.3 million.
The franchise tag provides a short-term solution but complicates McCarthy’s development. Drafted as a raw prospect out of Michigan, McCarthy’s limited starting experience and offensive system at Michigan make him a developmental player. Keeping him on the bench for another year risks wasting valuable time on his rookie contract.
The demand for quarterbacks in 2025 is expected to outpace supply. Schefter highlighted the shallow draft class, with only two quarterbacks projected to have first-round grades. McCarthy’s pedigree as a top prospect in the 2024 draft makes him a coveted target for QB-needy teams. He was widely praised for his leadership qualities and potential to transform a franchise.
Drew Stanton, a former NFL quarterback, rated McCarthy as the best QB in his draft class. “He has an unbelievable skill set,” Stanton said. “The most important thing about playing the quarterback position is leadership, and J.J. McCarthy has that in spades.”
Teams picking in the top 10, including the Las Vegas Raiders, could aggressively pursue McCarthy. With Tom Brady as a minority owner, the Raiders might see McCarthy as their franchise quarterback. The organization has substantial draft capital and salary cap space heading into 2025, making a trade feasible.
Brady’s connection to Michigan, where McCarthy played college football, could also influence the Raiders’ interest. McCarthy’s raw talent and leadership qualities align with what the Raiders need, especially as other options, like Shedeur Sanders, seem increasingly unlikely.
Trading McCarthy would allow the Vikings to recoup assets. Minnesota currently has only three picks in the 2025 draft, with no selections between rounds two and four. Moving McCarthy could help replenish their draft capital while maintaining Darnold as their starter.
However, this path isn’t without risks. If Darnold struggles or fails to secure a long-term deal, the Vikings could find themselves without a clear solution at quarterback.
Read More: Why is Josh Dobbs called The Astronaut?
Image: McCarthy’s Instagram
NFL 
