Vikings to Stick with Darnold, NFL Agent Leigh Steinberg Predicts

Sam Darnold has not significantly harmed his chances for a lucrative contract despite experiencing two disappointing games at the season’s end. This perspective comes from NFL super-agent Leigh Steinberg, who expressed to TMZ Sports his confidence that the Minnesota Vikings will continue to view Darnold as their franchise quarterback moving forward. Steinberg’s insights underscore the importance of considering the entire season’s performance rather than just a couple of games when evaluating a player’s future.

Darnold, who was selected as the No. 3 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, experienced a remarkable career resurgence during the 2024-25 season. He achieved remarkable statistics, throwing for over 4,300 yards and an impressive 35 touchdowns, which played a crucial role in leading the Vikings to a stellar 14-3 record. His performance has reignited discussions around his potential and future within the league, showcasing his ability to perform at an elite level.

Unfortunately, Darnold’s impressive streak was cut short towards the end of the season, as the team’s hopes for a Super Bowl run were dashed following a disappointing performance against the Los Angeles Rams in the Wild Card round. This outcome has raised questions about the team’s overall readiness for the playoffs and Darnold’s capability to perform under pressure in crucial moments.

Despite the recent setbacks, Steinberg is optimistic that the Vikings will take a broader view of Darnold’s performance, considering the entirety of his contributions throughout the season rather than just the last two games. He is confident that the team will choose to retain No. 14 as their starting quarterback, even with the presence of first-round pick J.J. McCarthy on their roster. This decision could reflect a commitment to continuity and long-term success.

Steinberg remarked, “At the end of the day, I believe that when you evaluate his entire body of work, it is evident that he performed exceptionally well and demonstrated all the qualities of a franchise quarterback. He truly excelled throughout the season, showcasing his potential and skill set.” His confidence in Darnold’s abilities speaks volumes about the quarterback’s impact on the Vikings’ overall performance this year.

Steinberg, who served as the inspiration for the film “Jerry Maguire,” also noted that while the Vikings might not be thrilled with Darnold’s performances in Week 18 against the Detroit Lions and in the recent 27-9 loss, they likely understand that these games do not capture his true potential on the field. This acknowledgment suggests that the organization recognizes the value of consistency and the importance of evaluating a player’s full season rather than isolated performances.

If the Minnesota Vikings do decide to retain Darnold, it could lead to significant financial rewards for him in the near future. Darnold was previously on a one-year, $10 million contract, and after a standout 2024 season, it is likely that he will be in line for a substantial increase in pay. This potential financial boost reflects his value and performance as a starting quarterback in the NFL.

Steinberg’s predictions are well-informed, given his extensive experience representing high-profile NFL players, including Patrick Mahomes, Troy Aikman, and Steve Young. His deep understanding of the league dynamics and player evaluations positions him as a credible voice in discussions about Darnold’s future and the Vikings’ strategy moving forward.