This year's class of free agent quarterbacks is becoming very interesting. Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold is the most intriguing name of the group as he's only 27 and just had a breakout year.
However, 2024 was the first time he looked like an NFL starter. The Vikings are loaded with great pass-catching weapons and Kevin O'Connell is one of the top young playcallers in the NFL. It's easy to see why many would believe that 2024 was a fluke.
The Las Vegas Raiders might have the biggest need at quarterback in the NFL and could make sense for Darnold. Cody Benjamin of CBS Sports predicts that Las Vegas will sign the Pro Bowl quarterback to a three-year, $114 million contract in free agency.
"The Vikings like Darnold and his live arm, but they like their 2024 first-round investment, J.J. McCarthy, just as much," Benjamin wrote. "And the bargain-bin route worked out just fine for them after they let Kirk Cousins walk. Darnold, meanwhile, might prefer to cash in for a top gig while he can."
This contract projection isn't too big of a commitment from the Raiders. It's only three years and they keep it under $40 million a year. Darnold looked very good in 2024 but it's still a big risk to give him a massive contract.
This would be a good middle ground as the Raiders wouldn't be stuck with him for too long if he struggles. From Darnold's perspective, a shorter deal could make some sense. If he plays really well, he'll be in for a huge raise after those three years are up.
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