Marvelous Sam Darnold at Vikings Minicamp.
Sam Darnold, a quarterback the Minnesota Vikings signed during free agency this offseason, is expected to serve as a seamless bridge for J.J. McCarthy, the team’s eventual starting rookie quarterback. It’s obvious at this point in the offseason that the Vikings want to start Darnold for the most, if not the entire regular season.
This is in no way intended as criticism of J.J. McCarthy, but head coach Kevin O’Connell has made it clear that they will be extremely patient with McCarthy’s progress.
Even though McCarthy is being patient with the coaching staff, it already seems like Darnold is thriving in O’Connell’s plan. The Minnesota Vikings beat writer expressed great admiration for Darnold’s performance throughout the last three days of mandatory minicamp.
Sam Darnold, the quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings, exudes composure and assurance.
Darnold has appeared composed, self-assured, and consistent throughout this week’s required minicamp, which runs from Tuesday, June 4 to Thursday, June 6, according to Alec Lewis of The Athletic. Throughout those three days, not only did the 26-year-old show off his skills, but he also took every first-team rep.
Darnold looked calm, confident and prepared for what is likely to be another starting opportunity. Thursday, he surveyed receivers in a seven-on-seven rep, then placed the ball perfectly in stride toward second-year receiver Jordan Addison. Once Addison caught the ball and turned upfield, multiple teammates who had been watching from behind Darnold yelled, “Thatta boy, Sam!”
Darnold’s consistency stood out for three days. He connected with Jefferson on a couple of over routes Wednesday, dropping the ball into hard-to-see windows. He anticipated cuts and displayed touch.
Alec Lewis (The Athletic)
