Sam Darnold’s remarkable journey continues as he moves from the Minnesota Vikings to the Seattle Seahawks, having inked a lucrative three-year deal worth $105.5 million, with a cool $55 million guaranteed. With his departure, the Vikings are ready to usher in a new era under J.J.

McCarthy’s leadership. And while there’s chatter about potential blockbuster additions like Aaron Rodgers or Russell Wilson, for now, McCarthy seems poised to steer the Vikings’ ship.

So who comes out on top, and who finds themselves in a tougher spot with this move?

Winner: Sam Darnold

It’s hard not to start with Sam Darnold. The man secured a contract that sets him up financially in a big way, cashing in on a standout 2024 season that no one saw coming.

Once labeled a fading star with both the Jets, where he was third overall pick in 2018, and Panthers, Darnold found himself in the backseat with the 49ers in 2023. But his fortunes turned when given the chance to step up for the Vikings, following an injury to J.J.

McCarthy.

Now, Darnold is being paid like the franchise quarterback he played like last season. Sure, the Seahawks made some big changes, trading away DK Metcalf and releasing Tyler Lockett, but with emerging talent Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Darnold has a promising new target. It’s yet to be seen how he’ll fare without the offensive acumen of former coach Kevin O’Connell in Seattle, but financially and professionally, Darnold’s a top winner here.

Loser: Minnesota Vikings

While it’s not the end of the world for the Vikings, losing a quarterback they helped rehabilitate stings a bit. They gave Darnold the stage to revitalize his career, only to watch him leave for a new opportunity, leaving the Vikings’ quarterback situation somewhat dicey.

Even though J.J. McCarthy is slated to be at the helm, there’s an undercurrent of uncertainty.

Coming off a significant injury and with no regular season experience yet, McCarthy remains a question mark. If he’s not ready and alternative options remain elusive, the upcoming season might test the Vikings rigorously.

Avoiding a hefty contract for Darnold might have been wise, but with no clear QB solution, the Vikings are momentarily on the losing end.

Winner: J.J. McCarthy

Despite the challenges, this could be a golden opportunity for J.J. McCarthy.

Injuries may have sidelined his starting chances last year, but the path is now clear for him to prove his worth. Fresh off leading his college team to a National Championship, the Vikings saw enough potential in McCarthy to pick him 10th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, amidst a star-studded quarterback class including talents like Caleb Williams and Drake Maye.

Now, it’s McCarthy’s moment. He’s got the chance to place himself in the ranks of his draft class peers—assuming he’s healthy and ready to embrace the challenge in front of him. If things go well, the Vikings could have their next franchise quarterback ready to shine.