Inside the Quarterback Market: Trades, Tags, and Future Stars
The Vikings’ Dilemma: To Tag or Not to Tag Sam Darnold?
The Minnesota Vikings find themselves at a crossroads regarding quarterback Sam Darnold. With Darnold poised to land a contract in the range of Baker Mayfield’s three-year, $100 million deal, some have questioned why the Vikings wouldn’t use the franchise tag to retain control over his trade value. However, this strategy presents complications. Tagging Darnold at $40.24 million would create two key issues: it would make contract negotiations harder, as he could simply accept the tag and push for an even bigger payday next year, and it would also strain the Vikings’ salary cap. While letting him walk presents risks, the team remains confident in their young quarterback, J.J. McCarthy, despite his recent injury struggles. The question remains: will Minnesota find a reliable insurance policy if Darnold departs?
Aaron Rodgers’ Price Tag: How Much for a Four-Time MVP?
Aaron Rodgers has been the subject of trade and contract speculation, particularly with rumors linking him to the Los Angeles Rams at a deep discount—potentially as low as $10 million per year. However, would Rodgers be willing to take a pay cut elsewhere? The answer depends on how excited he is about a potential new team. While Los Angeles offers proximity to his Malibu home and an elite coaching staff, it’s uncertain if other teams can provide the same allure. While a contender might persuade him to accept a discount, it’s unlikely he’d settle for anything close to the Rams’ reported figure.
Rising Stars: Could Jaxson Dart Sneak into the First Round?
As the NFL Draft approaches, Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart has emerged as a fascinating prospect. While currently projected as an early Day 2 pick, history has shown that quarterbacks can rise up the draft board unexpectedly. Dart leads a crowded field of second-tier prospects, including Quinn Ewers (Texas), Dillon Gabriel (Oregon), and Will Howard (Ohio State). His strong arm, experience, and the glowing reviews from the coaching staff at Ole Miss could make him a surprise first-round selection.
Predicting the 2025 Starting Quarterbacks
Several franchises face critical quarterback decisions this offseason. Here’s a bold prediction for who will be under center for a few key teams next season:
- Minnesota Vikings: J.J. McCarthy (with Daniel Jones as backup)
- New York Giants: Aaron Rodgers
- Las Vegas Raiders: Sam Darnold
- Cleveland Browns: Kirk Cousins
If these predictions hold, the 2025 season could see significant shifts in quarterback stability across the league.
The Deepest Position Group in the Mid-First Round
When examining the depth of the upcoming draft class, the edge rusher position stands out. While running back and tight end boast some intriguing prospects—such as Ashton Jeanty and Omari Hampton—this draft’s edge rushers are exceptional. Beyond top prospects like Penn State’s Abdul Carter and Georgia’s Jalon Walker, other standouts such as Mykel Williams (Georgia), James Pearce Jr. (Tennessee), and Jihaad Campbell (Alabama) all project as mid-first-round picks. This depth makes edge rusher the strongest position group within picks 6-26.
The NFL offseason always brings surprises, and this year is no different. From quarterback contract negotiations to the upcoming draft, teams face complex decisions that will shape the league’s future. As front offices strategize, fans eagerly await to see how their teams position themselves for success in 2025 and beyond.
