Breaking-News: Vikings’ Sam Darnold named Most Improved Player in 2024 by PFWA

Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold has been named the 2024 Most Improved Player of the Year by the Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA).

While it’s not an official NFL award — though many would argue it should be — this is a significant honor for Darnold. After a stunning Pro Bowl season in Minnesota, he was the clear frontrunner for this recognition, reviving his career in impressive fashion.

The NFL does have a Comeback Player of the Year award, which was given to Joe Burrow by the PFWA and is expected to be his at the NFL Honors ceremony on February 6. Darnold, however, is a finalist for that award, even though he doesn’t fit the typical criteria of a player recovering from injury or illness.

Darnold signed a one-year, $10 million deal last March as the Vikings’ bridge quarterback, but he far exceeded expectations. The former No. 3 overall pick, once considered a bust after struggles with the Jets and Panthers, threw for 4,319 yards, 35 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions, posting a remarkable 102.5 passer rating. These numbers shattered his previous career highs, placing him as a borderline top-five quarterback in the league during the regular season.

Unfortunately, Darnold’s season ended on a down note with poor performances in the Vikings’ regular season finale against the Lions and their first-round playoff loss to the Rams. However, that shouldn’t overshadow the brilliant plays he made throughout the season to lead the Vikings to 14 wins. As Darnold heads into free agency in March, it will be interesting to see where his next chapter takes him.