The latest Vikings rumors make it clear that Sam Darnold’s starting job is far from secure

Sam Darnold is the starting quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings, though that may only be for lack of better options. Were it not for first-round rookie JJ McCarthy suffering a season-ending torn meniscus in the preseason, we might have seen that come to fruition already.

But a new opportunity for Minnesota to replace Darnold — quickly — has arisen via free-agent signal-caller Daniel Jones. And the Vikings are apparently interested in taking the chance, based on recent information from ESPN’s Adam Schefter is any indication.

Per Schefter, the Vikings and Baltimore Ravens are “two of the most likely teams” to sign Jones. So while Minnesota head coach Kevin O’Connell has routinely expressed faith in Darnold throughout the year, the organization’s actions say otherwise.

The Vikings are flirting with a potential Darnold alternative in Jones and aren’t trying to hide it. They operate in plain sight for all to see, telling us everything we need to know about where the former stands with the franchise.

Not only may Darnold not be part of Minnesota’s long-term plans, but he may not be part of their immediate future. The desire to add Jones speaks volumes, especially knowing they will likely have to win a bidding war for his services.

Schefter notes that Minnesota and Baltimore are “hardly the only ones” vying for Jones. The sixth-year pro is expected to command a significant market, even if his goal is to lock onto a playoff contender (like the Vikings).

After being cut by the New York Giants, Jones oddly set the stage for his next landing spot. One is his desire to join a team with title aspirations, and the Vikings and Ravens (and possibly others) appear willing to commit.

While that’s a tall order, Jones has plenty of experience as a starter, including a signature postseason win. Perhaps that helps to account for why the 27-year-old is an attractive choice for potential suitors such as the Vikings.

Darnold’s resurgence has been one of the better stories of the 2024 NFL campaign. Alas, all good things eventually come to an end. And he’s losing his luster in Minnesota, considering the Vikings want to add Jones.