Getty Quarterback Sam Darnold of the Minnesota Vikings. The Minnesota Vikings never seem to have it easy when it comes to the quarterback position — even when they get good seasons from their starters, which they often have in recent years. Sam Darnold represents the current conundrum, as he has been awesome in 2024 but is going to command a huge salary next year because of that. Minnesota has another option in rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy , who has missed all of this season with an injury.