Vikings reach deadline for making a decision about QB Sam Darnold today - Star Tribune

Today marks a significant day for the Minnesota Vikings, as they face a crucial deadline regarding their quarterback, Sam Darnold. The franchise has until 3 p.m. to decide whether to place the franchise tag on Darnold, a move that could greatly impact the team's future strategy and cap space. While the possibility of tagging Darnold remains, it seems increasingly unlikely for a variety of reasons. This article will delve into the factors influencing the Vikings' decision, providing a comprehensive analysis of the situation at hand.

The Minnesota Vikings are facing a significant decision today, with a deadline of 3 p.m. to decide whether or not to apply the franchise tag to quarterback Sam Darnold. The franchise tag is a designation a team may apply to a player scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent. It binds the player to the team for one year if certain conditions are met. In Darnold's case, this would mean a substantial financial commitment from the Vikings.

Sam Darnold, who was traded to the Vikings from the New York Jets in 2020, has had an unpredictable journey with the team. Despite showing flashes of brilliance, his inconsistent performances have left many questioning whether he is the right fit for the team's long-term plans. The decision to use the franchise tag on Darnold would essentially signify a vote of confidence in his abilities, despite his tumultuous tenure thus far.

However, the use of the franchise tag seems unlikely for several reasons. Firstly, the financial implications for the Vikings are considerable. The tag would guarantee Darnold a one-year contract equivalent to the average of the top five salaries at his position or 120% of his previous salary, whichever is greater. This could potentially strain the Vikings' salary cap, especially considering the team's other financial commitments.

From the team's perspective, it's not merely about financial calculations. The decision will also hinge on Darnold's performance and potential. While Darnold has had moments of excellence, he has also struggled with injuries and inconsistency. The franchise tag would be a significant investment in a player whose future performance is uncertain. The Vikings may also be considering other options at quarterback, either through the draft or free agency, which could influence their decision on Darnold.

Another significant factor that the Vikings must consider is the financial implications of using the franchise tag on Sam Darnold. If the Vikings decide to use their franchise tag on Darnold, they would be obligated to pay him a significant salary, usually determined by the average of the top five salaries at his position or 120% of his previous salary, whichever is greater. This could put a strain on the team's already tight salary cap situation.

According to Over the Cap, the Vikings are currently projected to be over the salary cap for the 2022 season, even without Darnold's potential franchise tag salary. This means that the team would need to make other moves in order to accommodate Darnold's salary, such as restructuring contracts, releasing players, or opting not to re-sign certain free agents. This could lead to a weakened roster overall, as the team would have less money to spend on other positions of need.

Moreover, there is also the risk that Darnold may not perform up to the level of his salary, as he has been inconsistent throughout his career. While he has shown flashes of potential, his performance has not been consistent enough to justify such a significant investment. This could leave the Vikings in a precarious situation, with a highly paid quarterback who is not performing at an elite level.

Considering these financial implications, it seems unlikely that the Vikings would choose to use their franchise tag on Darnold. It would be a risky move that could potentially hinder the team's ability to construct a competitive roster for the 2022 season.

Committing the franchise tag to Sam Darnold would not only affect the Vikings' immediate future on the field but would also have significant financial implications. The tag—essentially a one-year contract—would cost the Vikings approximately $25 million. That's a steep price for a player who has yet to prove consistent high-level performance.

According to Kevin Seifert, an NFL analyst, "The franchise tag is a big commitment, both financially and symbolically. It's a statement that you believe this player is a cornerstone of your team. The Vikings have to decide whether Sam Darnold has shown enough to warrant that level of investment."

While Darnold has shown potential, his inconsistent performance complicates the decision. In the 2020 season, he threw for 2,208 yards with nine touchdowns and 11 interceptions. This performance was a step back from his previous season, raising questions about his long-term viability as a franchise quarterback.

Seifert continues, "The franchise tag is meant to keep star players from hitting the open market. It's a high price to pay, especially for a quarterback who hasn't yet consistently performed at an elite level."

Thus, the decision to franchise tag Darnold is as much a financial consideration as it is a vote of confidence in his potential. As the deadline quickly approaches, the Vikings must weigh these factors and make a decision that will shape the future of the team.

As the 3 p.m. deadline looms for the Vikings to make a decision on franchise tagging Sam Darnold, it becomes a testament to the complex nature of sports management decisions. The considerations, the potential outcomes, and the future implications are all factors that contribute to this high-stakes decision-making process.

The decision to franchise tag Darnold seems unlikely at this point. However, regardless of the outcome, it serves as a reflection of the Vikings' strategic approach to their roster. It is a reminder of the constant evaluation and difficult choices faced by teams in the NFL.

While the future of Sam Darnold with the Vikings remains uncertain, one thing is clear - every decision made is with the ultimate goal of building a team capable of winning the championship. As the deadline passes, the Vikings, Darnold, and their fans will be looking ahead to the next chapter of their journey.

Source: https://www.startribune.com/minnesota-vikings-franchise-tag-sam-darnold-nfl-free-agency-newsletter/601230661