The Minnesota Vikings shocked the world during the regular season.
They won 14 games and looked ready to make the postseason.
Detroit Lions coach Dan Campbell also told Kevin O’Connell that they would meet again in the playoffs after the regular season finale.
Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case.
The Vikings’ offensive line and the Los Angeles Rams’ defense took a big leap forward, but Sam Darnold’s struggles didn’t help much.
This is why Colin Cowherd believes he has sealed his fate with the Vikings.
Speaking on “The Volume,” Cowherd predicted the Vikings would move on from Darnold and land JJ McCarthy as their quarterback for the future.
“Minnesota is leaving Sam Darnold and going with JJ McCarthy.”@colincowherd On the Vikings QB situation after the loss to the Rams. pic.twitter.com/62M5o7obwx
— The Volume (@TheVolumeSports) January 14, 2025
Furthermore, he argued that Darnold, who looked like a $50 million quarterback at one point in the season, is now more likely to sign a deal similar to Baker Mayfield in the three-year, $100 million range.
Of course, it’s never right or fair to blame just one player after a loss.
Then again, Kevin O’Connell has been very frustrated with Darnold over the past few weeks.
With a promising rookie quarterback waiting in line, the decision becomes much simpler.
Several teams will be in the mix for a free agent quarterback.
Darnold may have paid dearly for his struggles, but he will still have a chance to prove his worth and silence the doubters on his team.
next: Analysts believe Sam Darnold wasted money this offseason.
