Sam Darnold, after a career resurgence with the Minnesota Vikings, may be taking his talents to Buffalo in 2025! With the Bills potentially needing a quarterback and Darnold set to hit free agency, could this be the move that finally puts Buffalo over the top?
**Darnold to Test Free Agency**
After a strong season with the Vikings, coach Kevin O’Connell has said that Darnold has earned the right to test the market[2]. This has spurred plenty of speculation as to where he might land[3][4].
**Darnold’s Career Revival**
Darnold had a career year with the Vikings in 2024, posting personal bests in numerous categories, including passing yards (4,319), passing touchdowns (35), completion percentage (66.2) and passer rating (102.5)[3]. He even made his first Pro Bowl and helped the Vikings win 14 games[3].
**Why Buffalo?**
While not explicitly mentioned as a target, Darnold could be a fit with the Bills. The Bills, who are approximately $14 million over the 2025 salary cap, could decide to move on from Allen and bring in a cheaper option.
**Other Potential Landing Spots**
Several teams could be interested in acquiring Darnold’s services[3][4]:
* **Las Vegas Raiders:** The Raiders have a clear need at quarterback and the cap space to make a deal[2].
* **Minnesota Vikings:** A reunion in Minnesota is still possible, though less likely after the emergence of J.J. McCarthy[4].
* **Pittsburgh Steelers:** The Steelers could be looking for a new quarterback in 2025[3][4].
* **New York Giants:** The Giants might seek an upgrade at the quarterback position[4].
**Darnold’s Late-Season Struggles**
Despite his overall success, Darnold struggled in the final two games of the 2024 season[3][4]. This could give some teams pause when considering offering him a lucrative contract[3].
**Comeback Player of the Year**
Despite not winning the award, Darnold received votes for Comeback Player of the Year[5].
**Fan Frenzy: Is Darnold the Answer in Buffalo?**
With Darnold set to hit free agency, Bills fans are debating whether he’d be a good fit in Buffalo. Is he the answer at quarterback, or would the Bills be better off looking elsewhere?