Grading the Vikings' first six signings in 2024 free agency
By Adam Carlson
Vikings free agent No. 4
Sam Darnold, quarterback
Contract: 1 year, $10 million
It would be hard to find a Minnesota Vikings fan who is extremely excited about Sam Darnold joining the team, but there are some valid reasons it makes a lot of sense for him to be in a purple and gold jersey in 2024.
At one time, Darnold was one of the top quarterback prospects in college. However, since being the No. 3 overall draft selection by the New York Jets in 2018, the former USC passer has struggled to find a starting role and has accepted a role as a backup.
Darnold has a starting record of 21-35 in the NFL and a 63-to-56 touchdown-to-interception ratio in his career. It is difficult to be optimistic about his chances to win football games if he is named the starter for 2024.
The Minnesota Vikings likely signed Darnold as rookie insurance. Expect the Minnesota Vikings to be extremely interested in selecting a quarterback in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft and for the team to start Darnold until the young prospect is ready.
Grade: D+
There were better options in free agency and $10 million is a little steep for Darnold's services. Let's hope he can prove his doubters wrong if he is given the opportunity to be the starting quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings in 2024.