Sam Darnold

ESPN’s Kevin Seifert reports it’s “fully expected” Sam Darnold will begin the Vikings’ offseason program as the No. 1 quarterback over first-round pick J.J. McCarthy.

In other words, the Vikings are taking the traditional approach of making McCarthy “earn it.” This is a situation where it is not entirely outside the realm of possibility that veteran Darnold actually makes an early-season start or two if McCarthy isn’t ready, but the competition will undoubtedly be rigged in the rookie’s favor.