The NFL’s franchise tag window is officially open, and the **Minnesota Vikings** face a pivotal decision regarding 2024 starting quarterback **Sam Darnold**, who revitalized his career with a breakout season (4,300+ yards, 29 TDs, 12 INTs, 66% completion rate). Despite his resurgence, insiders like *Sports Illustrated*’s Albert Breer report the Vikings are **unlikely to use the tag** on Darnold—a move critics argue would be a blunder, given the premium value of competent QBs in recent trades (often fetching multiple first-round picks).
**J.J. McCarthy’s Weight Concerns Take Center Stage**
Breer, during an appearance on *The Herd with Colin Cowherd*, revealed that while the Vikings are optimistic about **2024 No. 10 pick J.J. McCarthy**’s recovery from a torn meniscus, there are **legitimate concerns about his weight**. McCarthy, sidelined all last season, appeared noticeably slimmer late in 2024, sparking speculation about his physical readiness. Breer’s comments suggest these worries aren’t just fan theories but are circulating within NFL circles and possibly the Vikings’ own facility. With McCarthy needing to bulk up to withstand NFL hits, his development timeline—and the team’s faith in him as the future QB1—is under scrutiny.
**Darnold’s Uncertain Future**
Breer doubled down on expectations that Minnesota will let Darnold test free agency, hoping he circles back for a team-friendly deal. However, history shows sought-after QBs rarely return after hitting the open market. If Darnold lands a lucrative offer elsewhere, the Vikings risk entering 2025 with McCarthy (if healthy) or a placeholder QB, delaying their playoff aspirations.
**Bottom Line:**
Minnesota’s QB strategy hinges on high-stakes gambles—betting on McCarthy’s untapped potential while risking the loss of a proven bridge option in Darnold. With the tag deadline looming, the Vikings’ front office faces mounting pressure to avoid a franchise-altering misstep.
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