Dec 29, 2024; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold (14) reacts with running back Cam Akers (27) after a touchdown against the Green Bay Packers during the third quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images

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Will the last 2 weeks affect Sam Darnold’s value? ESPN’s Adam Schefter weighs in!

Sam Darnold’s free agency outlook after playoff struggles.

The Minnesota Vikings’ season ended in a disappointing 27-9 loss to the Los Angeles Rams in the Wild Card round. For a team that racked up 14 wins during the regular season, the early playoff exit stings. At the heart of the offseason chatter is quarterback Sam Darnold, whose year has been full of ups and downs. While his overall stats paint a solid picture, his last two performances have cast doubt over his free agency value.

A season of improvement overshadowed by critical missteps

Darnold’s 2024 regular season stats are noteworthy. He finished with 4,319 passing yards, 35 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions—ranking among the top quarterbacks in the league. For many, this was a stark contrast to his earlier career struggles, including his infamous “seeing ghosts” comment during his Jets tenure.

"He's (Sam Darnold) going to be a desired commodity. BUT, you can't look at the last two weeks and think he's enhanced his value."@AdamSchefter on the @Vikings QB

Schefter added, "He's still the best free agent QB out there."pic.twitter.com/YtBdi47QLO
— The Purple Persuasion (@TPPSkol) January 14, 2025

However, his performances in the final stretch of the season and playoffs have raised questions. Against the Detroit Lions in Week 18, Darnold faltered in a game that could have secured the Vikings the NFC’s top seed. Then, in the playoff loss to the Rams, he was sacked nine times and failed to generate significant offense. While some blame the Vikings’ offensive line, others point to Darnold’s inability to adapt under pressure.

Adam Schefter weighs in on Darnold’s free agency prospects

Despite Darnold’s rough finish, ESPN’s Adam Schefter believes his value remains intact. Appearing on The Pat McAfee Show, Schefter addressed Darnold’s free agency outlook:

“I still think he’s probably the number one free agent quarterback available,” Schefter stated. “I still think he’s going to be a desired commodity, but you can’t look at the last two weeks and think he enhanced his value.”

Schefter’s assessment aligns with the sentiment that while Darnold’s recent struggles are concerning, his overall season performance keeps him in high demand. Teams in need of a quarterback will weigh his potential against the limited options available in the free agency pool.

Teams will scrutinize Darnold’s playoff struggles but won’t ignore his value

Darnold’s collapse in key games undoubtedly impacts his market value. The nine sacks against the Rams and his struggles against the Lions highlight potential issues with decision-making under pressure. However, it’s also clear that these performances alone don’t define his season.

Schefter’s argument holds weight. Darnold remains an attractive option compared to other free-agent quarterbacks, especially given his significant statistical improvements. For teams seeking stability and upside at the quarterback position, Darnold’s overall body of work will likely outweigh his late-season slip-ups.

Image: Imagn

Adam Schefter

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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