The Minnesota Vikings are facing a crucial decision this offseason – whether to bring back Sam Darnold or move forward with JJ McCarthy as their franchise quarterback. This is a decision that has been heavily debated among fans and experts alike, with both options having their own set of pros and cons. However, as free agency looms and no deal in sight, it may be in the best interest of the Vikings to bring back a familiar face in Darnold.
Darnold, the former #3 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, spent the first three years of his career with the New York Jets before being traded to the Carolina Panthers last season. While his time with the Jets was marred by inconsistency and a lack of support from the coaching staff, Darnold showed flashes of potential and talent that made him a highly sought-after prospect in the draft. And now, with a fresh start in Carolina, he has shown significant improvement and growth as a quarterback.
So why should the Vikings consider bringing back Darnold instead of moving forward with McCarthy? For starters, Darnold has already proven himself in the NFL. He has experience playing at the highest level and has shown that he can handle the pressure and expectations that come with being a starting quarterback. This is something that McCarthy, a rookie, cannot offer at this point in his career.
Moreover, Darnold has a familiarity with the Vikings’ offensive system. He spent his first three years in the league playing under offensive coordinator John DeFilippo, who is now back with the Vikings. This means that Darnold would not have to spend time learning a new system and can hit the ground running. This is crucial for a team that is looking to make a deep playoff run next season.
Another factor to consider is Darnold’s age. At just 24 years old, he still has a lot of room for growth and development. He has shown that he can learn from his mistakes and improve as a quarterback. With the right coaching and support, Darnold has the potential to become a top-tier quarterback in the league. This is something that the Vikings should not overlook.
On the other hand, McCarthy is still an unproven commodity. While he was highly touted coming out of high school and has all the physical tools to succeed in the NFL, he has yet to play a single snap at the professional level. It would be a huge risk for the Vikings to hand over the reins of their offense to a rookie, especially when they have a proven option in Darnold available.
Of course, there are concerns about Darnold’s performance and consistency. He has had his fair share of struggles and has yet to put together a complete season. However, with the right pieces around him, Darnold has shown that he can be a capable and reliable quarterback. And with the Vikings’ strong offensive line and talented receiving corps, he would have all the support he needs to succeed.
In addition, bringing back Darnold would also send a positive message to the team and the fanbase. It would show that the Vikings are committed to winning and are willing to make bold moves to improve their chances. It would also provide a sense of stability and continuity for the team, which is crucial for success in the NFL.
In conclusion, while the decision to bring back Darnold may not be the most popular among fans, it is the right move for the Vikings. He offers experience, familiarity, and potential for growth, all of which are crucial for a team looking to make a deep playoff run. So, let’s hope that the Vikings heed this advice and bring back a familiar face in free agency. It could be the key to their success in the upcoming season.
