Vikings Acquire Darnold In Free Agency

Vikings Sign Sam Darnold

Vikings Acquire Darnold in Free Agency

Cousins Departs After Six Seasons

The Minnesota Vikings have signed former Jets and Panthers quarterback Sam Darnold in free agency. The Vikings parted ways with Kirk Cousins after six seasons, unable to agree on a contract that fit both sides.

Darnold, who turns 26 in June, was selected third overall by the Jets in the 2018 NFL Draft. He spent three seasons in New York before being traded to the Panthers in 2021.

In Carolina, Darnold showed signs of improvement, completing 64.9% of his passes for 3,641 yards with 25 touchdowns and 13 interceptions. However, the Panthers struggled to a 5-12 record in Darnold's lone season with the team.

The Vikings are hoping that Darnold can take the next step in his career and lead them to a playoff berth. He will be reunited with former Jets offensive coordinator Kevin Stefanski, who is now the head coach in Minnesota.

Cousins, meanwhile, could be a target for the Houston Texans, who are in need of a quarterback after trading Deshaun Watson to the Cleveland Browns.

Conclusion

The Vikings' acquisition of Darnold is a low-risk, high-reward move. If Darnold can play to his potential, he could be a steal for the Vikings. However, there is also the risk that Darnold will not live up to expectations and the Vikings will be back in the market for a quarterback next offseason.