The Minnesota Vikings’ plans for the quarterback position this offseason haven’t unfolded as hoped, potentially setting the stage for a significant move within the next seven months. This move could involve signing Dallas Cowboys Pro Bowler Dak Prescott to a lucrative multiyear deal, something owner Jerry Jones seems hesitant to offer.
If Prescott becomes an unrestricted free agent after this season, he’ll likely attract interest from several teams, with the Vikings expected to be among them unless something extraordinary happens in Minnesota over the next 18 weeks. Sam Darnold, the Vikings’ current starter on a one-year contract, is in what may be his last opportunity to prove he’s a starting-caliber quarterback in the NFL. Despite being the No. 3 overall pick in the 2018 draft, Darnold has struggled throughout his six-year career. ESPN’s Seth Walder predicted on September 2 that while Darnold might have his best season yet with the Vikings, it still won’t be enough to secure the team’s success or his role as a starter in 2025.
“Darnold’s seventh season won’t be the charm,” Walder wrote. “He’ll achieve a higher QBR than ever before, but won’t break into the top 20. Although the Kevin O’Connell offense might boost his stats, his long history of underperformance is too significant to overcome.” With J.J. McCarthy out for the season due to a torn meniscus, the Vikings could enter next March without a clear quarterback solution, potentially following two consecutive losing seasons. This scenario would put head coach Kevin O’Connell and general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah under significant pressure. If the Vikings don’t secure a top-five draft pick, they may have to either rely on an unproven second-year QB in McCarthy or seek a more immediate answer in free agency.
Should Prescott become available, he would likely be the best option. The Cowboys quarterback is currently in the final year of a four-year, $160 million contract, and his projected market value is $55.1 million annually over the next four years, according to Spotrac.
