The NFL does not have the highest of expectations the Minnesota Vikings this season and they’ll swim the entire length of the 2024 pool without their first round rookie quarterback, after he underwent season-ending knee surgery.
On top of that, the NFC North might be one of the best divisions in football. But the biggest unknown entering the season, by far, is bridge quarterback Sam Darnold. Six seasons into his NFL career, most have already tabbed him as a bust. But he’s also never been in a situation like the one he is in with the Vikings, either.
The Vikings compete if Sam Darnold is good
Virtually all expectations for the Minnesota Vikings this year hinge on a belief in Sam Darnold. Sportsbooks don’t see them as a threat, but confidence seems high within the building. That’s because most inside TCO Performance Center believe in Sam Darnold and most outside it do not.
After talking to his sources in Eagan, ESPN Insider Dan Graziano senses a lot of optimism that, should Sam perform like the Vikings believe he can, he’ll shine and make Minnesota into a surprise playoff contender.
Darnold spent last season as the backup to Brock Purdy , learning Kyle Shanahan’s system in San Francisco. Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell, who comes from the same coaching tree, was able to pick up on the improvements that Shanahan helped Darnold make in terms of footwork and decision-making, and the Vikings believe Darnold is in a good place.
And let’s not forget that he has Justin Jefferson , Jordan Addison , Aaron Jones and eventually T.J. Hockenson to target. Will the Vikings’ offense be what it was with Kirk Cousins at QB? Not likely. But I don’t think it’s going to be an incompetent mess. This could be Darnold’s last chance to turn his career around, but it’s a good one.
Dan Graziano on Darnold playing well (ESPN)
Darnold has a near-even career TD/INT ratio of 63 touchdowns to 56 interceptions. His record as a starting quarterback is 21-35. No matter what stat or metric you look up to evaluate Darnold’s career, the result will reflect a lack of production.
But the past is the past and, as mentioned, Darnold is in a different place now both physically and mentally. Given what Kevin O’Connell and the Vikings have around Darnold, this is a chance to rewrite his future.
Related: “Watch Out” – NFL Sleeping on Vikings New Running Back?
What is Darnold’s ceiling with the Vikings?
That is certainly the million dollar question. Sam Darnold not only gets to work with a star head coach in O’Connell, but his teammates raise the bar as well. Aaron Jones is the best running back Darnold has ever played with.
Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison may be the NFL bar at wide receiver. Don’t forget about T.J. Hockenson, who will be back at some point too . If Darnold can utilize his protections, and show what landed him a first round selection in the NFL Draft, Minnesota’s fortunes may change drastically.
Related: Minnesota Vikings 53-Man Roster, with Practice Squad – 2024
The NFC North is not to be taken lightly, but the Vikings can hold their own at U.S. Bank Stadium. They’ll also likely be capable of a few upsets, and a final playoff spot may not be out of the question.
Sam Darnold will quickly showcase where he is at currently as a player. Despite it being a road game, squaring off against the New York Giants is a soft landing spot. The Vikings are hoping their belief in the veteran quarterback will pay off, and they’ll soon get game proof.
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