Report: Vikings signing Darnold to 1-year, $10M deal

The Minnesota Vikings are expected to sign free-agent quarterback Sam Darnold to a one-year, $10-million contract, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero.

News of the agreement with Darnold comes the same day Minnesota saw longtime starter Kirk Cousins reach a deal to join the Atlanta Falcons.

The No. 3 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, Darnold lasted only three seasons with the New York Jets before being traded to the Carolina Panthers. His struggles continued after the change of scenery, however, as he started only 17 games across two years in Carolina before departing as a free agent.

Darnold settled for a backup role with the San Francisco 49ers last season, serving as the No. 2 quarterback behind Brock Purdy. He started one game for the NFC champions, finishing the year completing 28 of 46 passes for 297 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception.

The 26-year-old could temporarily be penciled in as Minnesota's starting quarterback, pending a significant addition in April's draft. The Vikings currently hold the No. 11 overall pick after posting a 7-10 record in 2023.