Top 3 Free Agent Fits for Sam Darnold if Vikings Don’t Give Him Extension

The Minnesota Vikings’ quarterback situation has been a topic of ongoing discussion, especially in light of their decision to extend or move forward without Sam Darnold, the former first-round pick. With the prospect of the Vikings not offering him a contract extension, Darnold is poised to enter free agency, and his future in the NFL is in play. Darnold has been a polarizing figure throughout his career, with flashes of potential mixed with inconsistent play. Yet, despite his ups and downs, several NFL teams could be a good fit for Darnold, providing him with a fresh start and an opportunity to revitalize his career.

This article will examine three potential landing spots for Sam Darnold, analyzing how each team could benefit from his skill set and how he could fit into their respective systems. Given that Darnold is a former No. 3 overall pick, his talent and upside cannot be overlooked. As he prepares to enter free agency, his options could include teams with current quarterback uncertainties or those in search of a veteran presence to groom a young signal caller. Let’s take a deeper look at where Darnold might land.

1. San Francisco 49ers: The Best System for Sam Darnold’s Skill Set

The San Francisco 49ers could be the ideal destination for Sam Darnold if he is seeking an opportunity to rebuild his career. While the 49ers already have Brock Purdy, a standout rookie quarterback, and Trey Lance, the team could benefit from having a solid veteran backup with starting potential, especially if Lance’s future remains uncertain and Purdy continues to develop into the team’s permanent starter.

Why It Makes Sense for Sam Darnold:

• Kyle Shanahan’s System: Head coach Kyle Shanahan is renowned for his ability to maximize the potential of quarterbacks, often crafting offensive systems that minimize mistakes and allow quarterbacks to thrive. Darnold’s raw talent is evident—he has the arm strength, athleticism, and potential to be a productive starting quarterback. However, his inconsistency, particularly in his decision-making, has been his downfall. Shanahan’s scheme has been successful in helping quarterbacks like Jimmy Garoppolo and Nick Mullens achieve strong seasons despite not being elite talents. If Darnold enters this environment, the structured offense could help him develop and mature into a capable starter. With Shanahan’s focus on creating a simplified and efficient offense, Darnold would likely find a system that allows him to play to his strengths.
• Great Supporting Cast: The 49ers boast a top-tier offensive line, talented wide receivers like Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk, a dynamic running back in Christian McCaffrey, and an elite tight end in George Kittle. This kind of surrounding talent has allowed quarterbacks to succeed even without elite arm strength or high-level talent. Darnold would have a more forgiving environment, which could help him regain his confidence. Furthermore, the 49ers’ ability to focus on a balanced offensive attack means Darnold would not be forced to carry the team on his shoulders. Instead, he could focus on making the right decisions, managing the game, and finding success with short-to-intermediate throws.
• Stability and Mentorship: While Darnold would likely not be the immediate starter, the 49ers could provide him with the stability of a playoff-caliber team that’s willing to take a chance on his potential. Purdy’s rise has been impressive, but there’s still room for uncertainty around Lance’s development, and Darnold could get a legitimate shot to compete for the job. If he impresses in a backup role or in practice, he could eventually see starting opportunities in San Francisco’s high-powered offense.

The Vikings’ Potential Role:

If the Vikings do not extend Darnold, it could open the door for him to join a Super Bowl contender like the 49ers. Minnesota is already in a transitional period with its quarterback situation, and offering a lucrative backup role or veteran insurance in a system like Shanahan’s could be tempting for Darnold.

2. Seattle Seahawks: A Franchise That Needs Veteran Depth and Competition

The Seattle Seahawks present another interesting option for Sam Darnold if the Vikings decide not to extend him. Seattle has its franchise quarterback in Geno Smith, who had a breakout year in 2022, leading the Seahawks to the playoffs and proving his worth as a reliable signal-caller. However, there are still questions regarding his long-term viability as the Seahawks’ long-term solution, especially as he enters his 30s.

Why It Makes Sense for Sam Darnold:

• A Potential Bridge to the Future: Darnold’s potential to be a starter again in the NFL could make him an appealing backup option for the Seahawks. Although Smith had a solid 2022 season, it remains to be seen whether he can replicate that success consistently. If Darnold lands in Seattle, he could be the backup who competes with Smith, offering depth and a potential bridge quarterback if Smith regresses. For the Seahawks, Darnold provides another option if Smith falters, while also being a potential trade chip or development project for the future.
• Development Opportunity with Pete Carroll: The Seahawks have historically done well in developing quarterbacks, and Darnold could benefit from working under the guidance of veteran head coach Pete Carroll. With Carroll’s experience and defensive-minded philosophy, the Seahawks would offer Darnold a stable environment to grow, especially with Seattle’s strong offensive weapons, including DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett. Carroll’s focus on fundamentals could help Darnold overcome the mistakes that have marred his career so far.
• Solid Running Game and Offensive Line: Like the 49ers, the Seahawks boast a strong running game with Kenneth Gainwell and a young, dynamic offensive line. A quarterback like Darnold, who struggles with mistakes under pressure, would benefit from a team with a solid run game to rely on. This is particularly important, as it would take the pressure off Darnold to carry the offense and give him more opportunities for success.

The Vikings’ Potential Role:

For the Vikings, the Seahawks offer a team with a reasonable amount of uncertainty in the quarterback room. The Seahawks are expected to be competitive in the NFC, and Darnold could offer solid backup depth, potentially finding a starting opportunity should Smith falter or get injured. Given Minnesota’s uncertain quarterback future, seeing Darnold in a role like this might not be far-fetched.

3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: The Next Chapter in a Post-Brady Era

With Tom Brady retiring, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have entered a transitional phase, leaving them in search of a long-term solution at quarterback. Tampa has already made moves to add Baker Mayfield, but the organization could use a veteran quarterback who has starting experience to compete with Mayfield and provide depth for the future.

Why It Makes Sense for Sam Darnold:

• Competition with Baker Mayfield: The Bucs’ current quarterback situation is in flux, and Darnold could provide an intriguing option in the competition for the starting job. Mayfield’s success has been inconsistent at best, and Tampa Bay might want a viable backup or potential starter. Darnold’s strong arm and talent would give him an edge in a competitive environment, where he can push Mayfield for the starting role or simply provide depth if needed.
• Playmaking Opportunities: Tampa Bay boasts talented offensive weapons like Chris Godwin, Mike Evans, and Rashad White, making it an attractive place for a quarterback to succeed. Although Brady’s presence in Tampa was a dominant force, the team still has a quality roster and offensive system in place to allow a quarterback like Darnold to thrive. With the right coaching and system, Darnold could leverage these weapons to make an impact for the Bucs.
• Rebuilding the Career: For Darnold, joining the Buccaneers could offer a fresh start after struggling with his past teams. Tampa Bay’s need for a stable quarterback means that he could find an opportunity to rejuvenate his career, particularly as the team transitions out of the Brady era. This could give Darnold the opportunity to prove his worth on a new stage, whether as a starter or key backup.

The Vikings’ Potential Role:

If Minnesota chooses not to extend Darnold, the Buccaneers offer another team that needs both a veteran presence and a potential long-term solution. Darnold could fit into Tampa Bay’s uncertain quarterback situation, serving as a valuable asset while looking to turn his career around in Florida.