Hey Darnold

I will say that I have been pro-Sam Darnold since the last off-season. So, I’m coming off as a bit biased, but it’s what could be with what is being done. Now, allow me to be the car salesman who persuades you. 

What I did not project was that Sam Darnold would enter next year with a nice contract extension as the Minnesota Vikings’ starting quarterback. If he continues looking as good as he has winning games and finds playoff success, this is certainly within the range of outcomes. As much as the Vikings love rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy, I can see Minnesota making Darnold their franchise guy. If they don’t, put it on the board that another franchise could. Now, this is opening a gigantic can of worms. I know rookie J.J. McCarthy was drafted to be that dude. But why push for him as this savior of a QB over a guy who is blossoming as just that? Being a J.J. owner with many shares, this isn’t easy to envision. A painting hard to believe we are witnessing, the masterpiece Darnold is doing his inner Picasso imitation. Across my many leagues, fantasy managers do not value Darnold as a long-term asset. 

I’m planting the stake in the ground. From everything I’m seeing, I believe he is more than a short-term QB. Do yourself a favor and target Darnold. If you are afraid to trade for him because you think he is a rental, the guy selling him is more than likely thinking the same. I’m not so sure he’s that rental. If he is, allow him to be the difference maker he is for you now.

There was a time when fantasy players perceived former QB Rich Gannon as this rental. Another good example is Kurt Warner, or any backup quarterback who became their team’s franchise quarterback. It’s easy to think a backup will not be the franchise guy because of who they are behind on the depth chart. Following the money is key. But there are times we get that wrong. This is the story behind many quarterbacks who found success as a franchise guy. That Tom Brady guy ended up as something special.

Listen: I’m not calling Sam Darnold the next Tom Brady. I’m not calling him Rich Gannon or Kurt Warner. But Sam Darnold is making a case that he could be following a similar career path in terms of opportunity. If you think Darnold is a rental, as many still do, that’s what you’re paying for. But seeing how Darnold is grabbing the bull by the horns, here’s how I see it. Acquiring Darnold from a nonbeliever won’t be a high price to pay. If you’re not trying to gain Darnold, it’s a missed opportunity from a value stance. 

If Darnold keeps playing at this pace or even takes a small step back, he will be starting somewhere in 2025. Even with this hot start, I’m willing to say we can still trade for him at Dynasty QB20-22 prices. 

If you feel strongly about him, like I do, pay what you think he is worth. I’d enjoy seeing some upcoming trades for him. 

I appreciate those of you who took the time to read my article here. I do vow to bring can’t-beat-winning, spicy advice into your life. Just as is with Dynasty, we don’t stop. Let the good times roll. Till next time. You can find me on Twitter/X @fantasybuff_ #DFFArmy #cantbeatwinning