Currently, Sam Darnold holds the top position on the Vikings’ quarterback depth chart. However, this situation may change in a month if the Vikings select a quarterback for their future. Despite this possibility, head coach Kevin O’Connell expresses confidence in Darnold’s ability to lead the team.
O’Connell notes that Darnold has progressed as a quarterback, especially towards the end of his time in Carolina and during his tenure with Kyle Shanahan in San Francisco last year. The Vikings anticipate Darnold performing well in the 2024 season.
According to O’Connell, Darnold’s potential is yet to be fully realized due to his development in recent years. Whether it was his performance towards the end of his stint in Carolina in 2022 or his growth under the coaching of Kyle Shanahan and Brian Griese in San Francisco, Darnold has shown improvements in fundamentals and techniques. O’Connell is enthusiastic about working with Darnold and believes his best football is still ahead of him.
The Vikings signed Darnold to a one-year deal worth $10 million, suggesting they view him as a capable short-term quarterback option for this season. While it’s unlikely that Darnold is part of the team’s future plans in the long run, O’Connell appreciates the value he adds to the quarterback group for the upcoming year.
