As Chiefs and Eagles fans gear up for Super Bowl LIX, fans of the other 30 NFL teams—including the Minnesota Vikings—are already looking ahead to the 2025 offseason. While the official start of the new league year isn’t until March 12, the coming weeks will be crucial in shaping the Vikings’ future, particularly at the quarterback position.
The franchise tag deadline will pass before the new league year begins, determining whether Sam Darnold hits free agency or remains with the team. Until then, speculation is running wild, especially with Super Bowl festivities in New Orleans sparking awkward public conversations about Minnesota’s QB plans. Will the Vikings re-sign Darnold, franchise tag him, or let him walk? The debate is heating up.
**Justin Jefferson Hints at Darnold’s Return?**
During an interview with *Yahoo Sports* on Wednesday, Vikings star wide receiver Justin Jefferson was asked about the team’s quarterback situation, specifically the potential competition between Sam Darnold and rookie JJ McCarthy. Jefferson praised McCarthy’s potential but surprisingly suggested that Darnold might return for the 2025 season.
“I get the feeling Sam is coming back,” Jefferson said, though he quickly added, “I’m not sure though, so don’t take my word for it.” He concluded by saying, “It will be good to have him back and to build, and to just see where it goes.”
**What Does This Mean?**
Jefferson’s comments have sparked questions about whether Darnold’s return is a done deal or simply a strategic move by the Vikings. The team benefits if other franchises believe they’re committed to keeping Darnold, even if their true intentions are to trade him later. Jefferson walked a fine line, avoiding offense to either quarterback while expressing confidence in the chemistry he built with Darnold last season.
Is Jefferson hinting at insider knowledge, or is he simply playing along with the Vikings’ potential bluff? Only time will tell.
**Timeline for a Vikings Decision on Darnold**
The NFL’s franchise tag window opens on February 18, giving teams the chance to secure key free agents like Darnold. This will be a critical moment for Vikings fans wondering about the team’s QB plans. Shortly after, from February 24 to March 3, the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis will bring together top executives, coaches, and prospects. While the event is officially about evaluating draft talent, it’s also a hotbed for offseason rumors and insider scoops as reporters mingle with league decision-makers.
By the time the combine wraps up, the start of the new league year and free agency will be just days away. For Vikings fans, the next few weeks could bring clarity—or more drama—to the team’s quarterback situation.
**Related:** The Jacksonville Jaguars recently hired a rising Vikings assistant as their new offensive coordinator, adding another layer of intrigue to Minnesota’s offseason moves.
As the NFL world shifts its focus from the Super Bowl to the offseason, the Vikings’ decisions at quarterback will remain a hot topic. Whether Darnold stays or goes, the coming weeks will shape the team’s future in a big way.
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