The Minnesota Vikings could go several different ways at quarterback after the season concludes, including taking a trip down memory lane.
Sam Darnold has been a revelation this season, in large part due to his value on a $10 million contract.
Minnesota acquired him in the first place because former starter Kirk Cousins priced them out in free agency by agreeing to a $180 million deal with the Atlanta Falcons.
Darnold’s worth, however, has skyrocketed to an estimated $36 million per year over a new four-year contract beginning in 2025 following two very different seasons.
Meanwhile, the Falcons announced this week that they are benching Cousins in favor of rookie quarterback and No. 8 overall choice Michael Penix Jr.
Ironically, a year after the trade under center, Darnold might now be too costly for the Vikings in the long run (especially with No. 10 overall pick J.J. McCarthy in the wings).
While Cousins might be a totally inexpensive backup for McCarthy if/when he takes over as starting quarterback the following season.
