Okay, let’s dive into this quarterback controversy brewing in Minnesota. The Vikings drafted JJ McCarthy with the 10th overall pick, but it’s Sam Darnold who’s been lighting it up. He’s currently sixth in the MVP race and has led the Vikings to a 14-2 record. So, what should the Vikings do?
It’s tempting to go with the rookie and his cheaper contract, but when you’ve got a quarterback playing at an MVP level, you don’t mess with that. Darnold has proven he’s a perfect fit for this system, and he’s got the Vikings looking like Super Bowl contenders.
Now, I know some folks are thinking about the future and the salary cap. Darnold’s going to command a hefty contract – somewhere around $50 million a year. That’s a lot more than McCarthy’s rookie deal. But in today’s NFL, if you don’t have a quarterback, you don’t have a chance.
Building a team starts with the quarterback. By locking up Darnold long-term, the Vikings can solidify their foundation and build around him. They can focus on filling those other roster spots without worrying about the most important position on the field.
But what about McCarthy? Well, the Jets might be interested. After the Aaron Rodgers experiment fizzled, they’re in need of a quarterback. Rodgers himself has hinted that he might be on the way out, and at 41 years old, retirement could be on the horizon.
McCarthy could be the answer for the Jets. He’s a talented young quarterback with a lot of potential. A fresh start in New York could be just what he needs to jumpstart his career. Plus, bringing in a young quarterback like McCarthy could help the Jets retain other key players like Garrett Wilson, who has expressed frustration with the team’s current situation.
So, here’s a potential trade scenario: the Vikings send McCarthy to the Jets in exchange for the 7th overall pick in the upcoming draft, a 4th-round pick in 2025, and a 2nd-round pick in 2026. It’s a win-win for both teams. The Vikings get some valuable draft capital, and the Jets get their potential franchise quarterback.
Ultimately, the Vikings need to go with the quarterback who gives them the best chance to win now. And right now, that’s Sam Darnold. He’s earned the right to be the franchise quarterback in Minnesota.
