Vikings QB Sam Darnold not expected to get franchise tag as Minnesota makes $40.2 million decision, per report - CBS Sports

In a move that could potentially alter the landscape of the NFL, Minnesota Vikings' quarterback, Sam Darnold, is reportedly not expected to receive a franchise tag from the team. This significant decision comes despite Darnold’s performance through much of the season, where he was considered among the top quarterbacks in the league. However, his performance flagged towards the end of the season, which seemingly has prompted the Vikings' management to reassess their commitment to him.

The financial implications of this decision are substantial, with the Vikings choosing not to commit an estimated $40.2 million to Darnold. This report, if confirmed, suggests a shift in the Vikings' strategy in terms of their future quarterback situation. This development has sparked discussions among analysts and fans alike, about the potential impact on the team and the ripple effects it might have on the league.

Sam Darnold, the Vikings' seasoned quarterback, started the 2021 season on a high note, delivering impressive performances that placed him among the top-tier quarterbacks in the National Football League (NFL). His early-season play was characterized by accurate throws, strategic play-calling, and a remarkable ability to read the defense and make necessary adjustments at the line of scrimmage. This level of performance contributed significantly to the Vikings' early victories, solidifying Darnold's reputation as one of the league's most promising talents.

Despite a strong start, Darnold's performance noticeably dipped towards the end of the season. This decline manifested in a series of inconsistent displays, marked by a decrease in completed passes, an increase in interceptions, and a general lack of the commanding presence he demonstrated in the season's earlier games. The result was a series of losses that put the Vikings' playoff hopes in jeopardy and raised questions about Darnold's capability to lead the team in high-pressure situations.

Such a performance trajectory is not uncommon in the NFL, where the length and intensity of the season can take a toll on even the most robust players. However, Darnold's performance drop has prompted the Vikings' management to reconsider their investment in the quarterback, leading to speculations that he may not receive the franchise tag for the coming season.

For the majority of the season, Darnold seemed to be in top form, his performances rivalling those of the league's best quarterbacks. His impressive string of performances in the first half of the season helped the Vikings to a strong start, leading many to believe that he would be a shoo-in for the franchise tag.

However, the second half of the season painted a different picture. Darnold's performance level dropped significantly, with his decision-making, accuracy and overall gameplay coming under heavy criticism. This drop in form coincided with a string of losses for the Vikings, casting a shadow on what had started as a promising season.

Despite the dip in Darnold's performances, many still believe that he has the potential to be a top quarterback in the league. His performances in the first half of the season showcased his talent and ability to lead an offense on the gridiron. However, his inconsistency in the latter half of the season has raised questions about his ability to consistently perform at the highest level.

As such, the decision to forgo the franchise tag on Darnold is not as straightforward as it might seem. While he has shown flashes of brilliance, his inconsistent performances make it a gamble for the Vikings to commit such a large sum to him. This decision by the Vikings management reflects the tough choices that teams often have to make in the high-stakes world of professional football.

Minnesota's decision not to use the franchise tag on Darnold leaves the team with some significant offseason considerations. While the Vikings have a capable backup in Kellen Mond, the team may also look to free agency or the draft to find a new starting quarterback. As a team with playoff aspirations, finding the right signal-caller is crucial.

According to NFL analyst Charles Davis, "The Vikings have a complex decision to make. While Darnold showed flashes of brilliance throughout the season, his inconsistency towards the end is concerning. They'll need to weigh the potential upside of sticking with him against the risk of his performance not improving. It's a high-stakes game of chess they're playing."

With a substantial amount of cap space, the Vikings could potentially lure a top free agent quarterback to Minnesota. Alternatively, the team could opt to use one of their draft picks on a young quarterback to develop under Mond and the coaching staff. The offseason decisions made by the Vikings will have a significant impact on the team’s trajectory for the upcoming season.

Sam Darnold's performance as the Vikings' QB has been a mixed bag. The start of the season saw him playing at the top of his game, showcasing the potential to be one of the NFL's premier quarterbacks. However, a noticeable dip in his performance towards the end of the season has raised some eyebrows and triggered the Minnesota Vikings' decision.

The Vikings' choice not to place the franchise tag on Darnold, thereby freeing up an impressive $40.2 million, is indicative of their confidence in their future strategy. It's a significant decision that will undoubtedly impact the team's future dynamics and performance.

As the NFL's off-season progresses, all eyes will be on Minnesota to see how the team navigates this crucial juncture. It will also be interesting to see where Darnold's career heads next, as he still has a lot to offer in the NFL landscape.

Source: https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/vikings-qb-sam-darnold-not-expected-to-get-franchise-tag-as-minnesota-makes-40-2-million-decision-per-report/