The Minnesota Vikings’ quarterback situation for next season remains uncertain, with the possibility of keeping the same duo of Sam Darnold and J.J. McCarthy or making a significant change. One thing is clear: either Darnold or McCarthy will remain on the roster. However, oddsmakers suggest that Darnold is more likely to leave, particularly with increasing speculation that Matthew Stafford could be on the move.
With the Rams granting Stafford permission to speak with other teams ahead of free agency, his departure from Los Angeles appears more likely. According to SportsBettingAG’s odds on February 20, the Vikings were listed as the top destination for Stafford at +300, followed by the Giants (+400) and Raiders (+500).
If the Rams pursue a trade, the Vikings could opt to franchise tag Darnold and work out a deal to send him to Los Angeles. While Darnold, who had a breakout 2024 season in Minnesota, is projected to command a four-year, $160 million contract in free agency, Stafford has two years left on his existing $160 million deal.
Despite being 10 years older, Stafford brings a more accomplished resume, including multiple Pro Bowl appearances and a Super Bowl victory. Notably, Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell was Stafford’s offensive coordinator during the Rams’ championship run in 2021. Bringing Stafford to Minnesota on a short-term deal would not only provide one more opportunity for a title push but also give McCarthy additional time to develop as the team’s future quarterback.
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