Breaking: Raiders Make Shocking Move for Superstar Quarterback in Free Agency
Hope is a powerful drug.
With the disappointing Raiders season now behind them, the NFL free agency period starting on March 10th offers a key opportunity for the Las Vegas Raiders to strengthen their roster and improve on their dismal 4-13 record.
Given the Raiders’ ongoing search for a franchise quarterback since parting ways with Derek Carr, there’s growing speculation that they could pursue Darnold once the free agency period opens.
Darnold’s career has had its ups and downs, but his potential could make him an intriguing option for the Raiders, who are looking for stability under center. While not widely considered a top-tier starter, Darnold could still bring value as a candidate to compete for the starting role or potentially develop into the long-term solution in Las Vegas.
In 2024, Sam Darnold had a breakout year, finally finding success as an NFL starting quarterback. He finished the season among the league’s elite, ranking in the top five for passing touchdowns (35) and passing yards (4,319). However, despite his impressive regular-season performance, Darnold faltered in the high-pressure moments of the final two games.
In Week 18, his performance fell short in a loss to the Detroit Lions, and he struggled again in the Wild Card round, where his team was defeated by the Los Angeles Rams. These disappointing finishes raised questions about his ability to perform in clutch situations, despite an otherwise standout season.
Nonetheless, a signal caller who could serve as a “bridge” quarterback for the next franchise field general may be exactly what the doctor ordered in the early stages of a rebuild for the Raiders organization.
The former USC standout and 2018 first-round draft pick signed a one-year, $10 million-dollar contract with the Vikings this past offseason. Despite his rocky ending to the 2024 campaign, he is most likely attract a decently large contract if Minnesota doesn’t decide to franchise tag or extend him themselves.
Will we see Darnold in the silver and black next season? Crazier things have happened.
