why did sam darnold leave the vikings

Sam Darnold left the Minnesota Vikings primarily because the Vikings were focused on developing their younger quarterback, J.J. McCarthy, and only offered Darnold a one-year contract to compete for the starting job rather than a long-term deal. Despite Darnold having a career year in 2024, with 4,319 yards, 35 touchdowns, and a Pro Bowl selection, the Vikings chose to prioritize McCarthy, their 2024 first-round draft pick, as their franchise quarterback moving forward. Darnold found a better opportunity and signed a three-year, $100.5 million contract with the Seattle Seahawks, where he is guaranteed a starting role and substantial guaranteed money. The Vikings did not franchise tag Darnold and preferred to maintain their plan to build around McCarthy rather than committing to Darnold long-term, which led to Darnold's departure in free agency.