There are several ways the Las Vegas Raiders could approach their quarterback situation this offseason. While the draft remains an option, momentum is building around the idea that the team will look to free agency for a starting quarterback.
Minnesota Vikings quarterback stands out as the only available free agent who could potentially serve as a franchise leader. At 27, he’s coming off his best season as a pro, but securing his services would require a significant financial investment.
Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay suggests that the Raiders should sign Him to a projected three-year, $120 million contract.
“The Las Vegas Raiders have both the money to burn and a renewed desire to win after some organizational changes,” Kay wrote in a Feb. 18 column. With Tom Brady now involved as a part-owner and the team bringing in Pete Carroll as head coach at 73, it’s clear Las Vegas isn’t planning for a long-term rebuild. Instead, they have the financial resources to make a major move in free agency.
While $40 million per year is a hefty price tag, if Darnold maintains his 2024 performance over the next three seasons, the investment could prove to be a bargain.
Sam Darnold’s Fit With Chip Kelly
Had the Raiders retained Antonio Pierce as head coach and Scott Turner as offensive coordinator, pursuing Darnold wouldn’t have made much sense. His success hinges on having a strong offensive mind leading the play-calling.
With Pete Carroll as head coach and Chip Kelly as offensive coordinator, Darnold could be in a system better suited to his strengths. Though Carroll is known for his defensive background, his experience with top quarterbacks, combined with his USC ties to Darnold, could be beneficial.
Kelly, with over two decades of experience developing quarterbacks, is also seen as a strong fit. Kay noted that their pairing could help Darnold build on his 2024 numbers—66.2% completion rate, 4,319 passing yards, and 35 touchdowns. SI.com’s Albert Breer even called it a “really good fit.”
Though signing Darnold could cost around $40 million per year, it may be a worthwhile investment if he helps turn around a struggling franchise that has yet to recover from Derek Carr’s departure.
Darnold Remains a Risk
While Darnold demonstrated last season that he can perform at a high level in the right system, his struggles in the Vikings’ two biggest games of the year raise concerns.
He has yet to prove he can consistently deliver in high-pressure situations, and with only one playoff start—where he underperformed—it remains uncertain whether he can elevate his game when it matters most.
If the Raiders choose to pursue Darnold, they must carefully consider whether he can rise to the occasion in crucial moments, especially if they’re investing $40 million per season in him.