Sam Darnold’s Vikings Breakout Could Lead to a J.J. McCarthy Trade for the New Orleans saints reveals insider

Sam Darnold’s Vikings Breakout Could Lead to a J.J. McCarthy Trade for the New Orleans saints reveals insider

First, we must see if this report passes the sniff test. While Schefter is one of the most connected reporters in the NFL, teams regularly leak fake information for their own selfish needs.

Giving up on a first-round quarterback after one year is rare, especially when that player has yet to see the field for the organization that drafted him. However, in this specific instance, it could happen.

Darnold has guided Minnesota to an impressive 14-2 record, but he hasn’t done it by just being a game manager.

The former third-overall pick has played like a legitimate franchise quarterback, routinely making amazing throws while keeping the ball out of harm’s way.

As of this posting, he ranks sixth in PFF grade, 10th in EPA/play, fourth in passing yards, fifth in touchdown passes, and 13th in ESPN’s QBR.

By just about every metric, he’s playing like a legitimate top-10 quarterback, and you don’t let a player like him walk out the door.

The Vikings know Darnold can play well in their system, which is not something they can say about J.J. McCarthy. However, that uncertainty shouldn’t stop them from receiving a significant return in a trade.

McCarthy was the fifth quarterback selected in a loaded 2024 draft class, but he’d probably be the QB1 in the underwhelming 2025 draft class.

With several teams needing passers, Minnesota could get a better first-round pick than the one they used on McCarthy. So, it’s safe to assume the Vikings will listen to offers, and the Saints should be among the top bidders.