The Minnesota Vikings have reportedly made a surprising decision regarding the future of quarterback Sam Darnold, as multiple media outlets revealed on Monday that the team will not be using the franchise tag to retain him. Despite this, the Vikings are still holding out hope that they can re-sign Darnold, who has been a key player for the team. The deadline for teams to use the franchise tag is quickly approaching, with Tuesday at 4 p.m. marking the cutoff point. This decision has significant implications for the Vikings and their plans for the upcoming season.
By choosing not to use the franchise tag, the Vikings are taking a risk that another team may swoop in and sign Darnold, potentially leaving them without a reliable quarterback. However, the team is seemingly confident that they can reach a new agreement with Darnold, who has expressed a desire to remain with the Vikings. The negotiations are likely to be intense, with both parties working to reach a deal that benefits them.
The use of the franchise tag would have guaranteed Darnold a certain salary for the upcoming season, but it would also have limited the team's ability to negotiate a longer-term deal. By not using the tag, the Vikings are free to pursue a more permanent contract with Darnold, which could provide more stability for the team. This approach also suggests that the Vikings are committed to building a strong relationship with Darnold, rather than simply trying to retain him for the short term.
The Vikings' decision not to use the franchise tag on Darnold is also likely to have an impact on the team's salary cap situation. Without the tag, the team will have more flexibility to make other roster moves and sign additional players. This could be crucial as the Vikings look to strengthen their lineup and make a push for the playoffs. The team's front office will need to carefully manage their resources, balancing the need to re-sign key players like Darnold with the need to bring in new talent.
As the deadline for using the franchise tag approaches, all eyes will be on the Vikings and their negotiations with Darnold. The team's fans will be eagerly awaiting news of a new contract, hoping that their quarterback will remain with the team for the long term. With the NFL offseason in full swing, this story is just one of many that will be unfolding in the coming weeks and months. One thing is certain, however: the Vikings' decision not to use the franchise tag on Sam Darnold will have significant repercussions for the team and the league as a whole.