This scenario presents an intriguing dilemma for the Minnesota Vikings as they assess their quarterback situation heading into the 2025 season. After a breakout year from Sam Darnold in 2024, the team is now in a position to either keep him as their starter, give J.J. McCarthy a chance to take over, or retain both quarterbacks while weighing their long-term options. Each path comes with benefits and risks, particularly in terms of salary cap flexibility and future draft assets.

The Vikings’ Three Options at Quarterback

Minnesota’s choices boil down to three realistic scenarios:

1. Darnold remains the starter, and McCarthy is traded – This would allow the team to capitalize on McCarthy’s trade value while committing to Darnold, who proved himself last season.
2. McCarthy takes over, and Darnold departs – The Vikings could roll with the young QB they invested in while allowing Darnold to test free agency.
3. Both return for 2025 – The Vikings could keep both quarterbacks, perhaps using Darnold as a bridge starter while McCarthy continues to develop.

Each option has ramifications, but the most intriguing involves trading McCarthy to recoup valuable draft capital.

Trading McCarthy to the Raiders for a Top Pick

A proposed trade scenario sees the Vikings sending McCarthy to the Las Vegas Raiders in exchange for the No. 6 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, along with the Raiders’ third-round selection (No. 68 overall).

This deal would provide Minnesota with a top-10 pick in a draft where their selections are currently limited. The move would allow the Vikings to add another blue-chip prospect while securing a mid-round selection that could be used for additional depth.

The Vikings Hold Leverage in Trade Talks

Minnesota has significant leverage in negotiations for McCarthy due to two main factors:

1. Darnold’s Breakout Year – Darnold threw for over 4,300 yards and 35 touchdowns last season, proving he can lead an offense at a high level. If the Vikings choose to extend him, they can be patient with McCarthy’s trade market, waiting for the best possible offer.
2. A Weak Quarterback Market – Several QB-needy teams may turn to McCarthy due to a lackluster free-agent class and a thin 2025 draft class. Only Shedeur Sanders (Colorado) and Cam Ward (Miami) have first-round projections, which could further boost McCarthy’s trade value.

Final Thoughts

While keeping both quarterbacks is an option, trading McCarthy could provide Minnesota with the best possible outcome—retaining a proven starter in Darnold while replenishing their draft capital. If the Raiders or another QB-needy team makes a strong offer, the Vikings could be in prime position to reshape their roster for the future.