Adam Schefter reveals chances of Sam Darnold returning to Vikings

The Minnesota Vikings chose not to place the franchise tag on Sam Darnold, but they remain interested in bringing him back next season. One NFL insider says the chances of that actually happening are not all that great.

ESPN's Adam Schefter discussed Darnold's future during an interview with KFAN's Paul Allen on Friday. The reporter was asked to give his opinion on the likelihood that Darnold will be the starting quarterback in Minnesota again in 2025.

"Not high, not high," Schefter said. "Again, as we go over all these scenarios, they're all in play. But I think the Vikings is a down-low scenario. I don't view that as a likely scenario right now."

The free-agent market is likely going to determine whether the Vikings bring Darnold back. By choosing not to use the franchise tag, the Vikings showed that they do not think Darnold is worth $41.3 million for one season. It is entirely possible that the 27-year-old will get a comparable salary to that on the open market and a multiyear commitment.

Darnold finished his first season as Minnesota's starter with 4,319 passing yards, 35 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. He led the Vikings to a 14-3 record, but they had a disappointing loss to the Los Angeles Rams in the opening round of the playoffs.

The Vikings traded up to the 10th overall pick to draft former Michigan star quarterback JJ McCarthy last year. McCarthy suffered a torn meniscus during the preseason, but all indications have been that Minnesota still views him as a potential franchise quarterback.

With teams like the New York Giants, Las Vegas Raiders, Tennessee Titans and Cleveland Browns all in need of a starting quarterback, Darnold has a good chance of landing a huge contract. The Vikings are probably only interested in bringing him back if he strikes out in free agency.

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