The Minnesota Vikings were slated to finish in the basement of the NFC North last season. After JJ McCarthy suffered a season-ending knee injury, former second overall pick Sam Darnold took over the starting spot. He had bounced around many teams after failing to live up to expectations. Kevin O’Connell and his staff coached him well. He led the team to a 14-3 record, and his performance earned him a massive three-year contract. The Vikings decided to roll with McCarthy for the 2025 season, but one NFL executive believes the “next Sam Darnold” is already on the roster.
Minnesota Vikings Already Have “The Next Sam Darnold”?
One of the trades that was lost during draft night was between the Minnesota Vikings and Seattle Seahawks. They swapped fifth-round picks, but the Seahawks also sent quarterback Sam Howell to the Vikings. The Athletic’s Mike Sando quoted an anonymous NFL executive, who isn’t a JJ McCarthy believer, saying that Howell is the next quarterback to have his career revitalized with the Minnesota Vikings.
“You know what is going to happen? J.J. is going to get banged up, and Howell is going to walk in there and become the next Sam Darnold.”
Howell has had experience as a starting quarterback and has had some moments where he showed potential. In 2023, he started all 17 games for the Washington Commanders and threw for 3,946 yards, 21 touchdowns, and 21 interceptions. The interceptions have been the problem, as he is very prone to turning the ball over. However, this NFL executive believes being under the tutelage of O’Connell and his staff could result in him outperforming expectations.
Vikings QB Room Situation
The Minnesota Vikings clearly believe in McCarthy. Players have also been raving about the former Michigan quarterback and his work ethic. However, he is still a first-year starter. We have no idea how he will adjust to the NFL. Injuries also happen, and having a capable backup waiting in the wings is a good thing.
Howell has experience starting in the NFL, and even if he doesn’t see the field, he will be a valuable asset for the young signal caller. There are many twists and turns in an NFL season, and the Vikings are prepared.
Final Thoughts
If Sam Howell sees a career revival in Minnesota, Kevin O’Connell will be a perennial Coach of the Year candidate. This is definitely a hot take from one NFL exec but it hinges on McCarthy being a bust. Will the Vikings be able to duplicate the success of last season despite the change under center?
