Although the Minnesota Vikings allowed former quarterback Sam Darnold to enter free agency, there’s growing speculation that they may release him before the start of the 2025 regular season. According to one NFL analyst, the team might be nearing a decision to part ways with the former first-round pick after he missed the entire previous season. The Vikings are in urgent need of a dependable quarterback, especially after Darnold showed unexpected promise as a stopgap option. With expectations mounting, the team may not cut ties with him right away—but that move could still be approaching sooner than expected.
Selected 10th overall, he had an outstanding college career, leading Michigan to a perfect season and a national title in 2022, finishing with just one collegiate loss. His early NFL struggles stem largely from an untimely injury, and most teams typically require at least two full seasons to evaluate a young quarterback. The Vikings haven’t had that chance yet, so it would be surprising if they gave up on him this early.
If Minnesota struggles this season, keep an eye on these three teams as possible trade destinations—even before the season concludes.
Vikings May Cut JJ McCarthy – 3 Likely Landing Spots
1. New Orleans Saints
The Saints face a challenging season after a chaotic offseason. With Derek Carr retiring due to injury concerns, the quarterback competition now rests between 2025 draft pick Tyler Shough and 2024 selection Spencer Rattler. While Rattler has the edge due to his experience with the team, the Saints can’t rely solely on him if he fails to perform. McCarthy, although unproven in the NFL, may offer a more solid option. He’s unlikely to take them to a Super Bowl right away, but he could potentially guide them to a playoff spot, like a wild-card berth.
2. Carolina Panthers
Bryce Young is under pressure despite showing progress last season. He now has all the tools to succeed, so there’s little room for excuses. Head coach Dave Canales has shown he’s not hesitant to bench a starter if needed, as he did previously to spark Young’s improvement.
If Young falters again, the team might pursue a trade, and McCarthy could be a prime candidate to step in and potentially turn their season around.
3. Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals are also monitoring their quarterback situation closely. If Kyler Murray underperforms, he could be moved via trade or released, despite the strong supporting cast around him. Backup Jacoby Brissett likely won’t be enough to keep them competitive, but McCarthy might provide the spark needed to shift the team’s momentum.
