Sam Darnold

Sam Darnold completed 25-of-40 passes for 245 yards, one touchdown, and one interception in the Vkings’ 27-9, Wildcard loss to the Rams, adding 19 yards on four carries and losing a fumble.

Darnold was under duress throughout, eventually leading to an NFL-record nine sacks in the Wildcard loss to the Rams. He notably failed to complete a pass directed towards alpha wide receiver Justin Jefferson in the second half on three targets. One of his nine sacks taken resulted in a fumble that was housed by the Rams defense, which occurred in a seven-point game in the second quarter. It is fair to question whether Darnold has attempted his last pass as a member of the Vikings considering the offense managed just 18 points in their final two games in 2024, scoring just nine against the Lions in Week 18 to fall to the five seed and nine against the Rams in the Wildcard Round. Darnold’s contract is set to expire this offseason. Although the team finished the regular season with a stellar 14-3 record, a one-and-done in the postseason could have the franchise looking elsewhere at quarterback, potentially turning to J.J. McCarthy in 2025. Darnold’s year ends with a Pro Bowl selection after throwing for 4,319 yards and 35 touchdowns to 12 interceptions.