Unconventional Destinations for Sam Darnold in 2025
The quarterback carousel in the NFL never stops spinning, and as the 2025 season approaches, the fate of some notable signal-callers remains uncertain. One intriguing name that could find himself in a new jersey next year is Sam Darnold. While conventional wisdom might suggest the New York Jets or Las Vegas Raiders as potential landing spots, let’s explore three dark horse destinations where Darnold could reignite his quarterback career.
Indianapolis Colts
The Indianapolis Colts, once hopeful about Anthony Richardson leading their offense, now face uncertainties. Richardson’s erratic performances, coupled with lingering health concerns, have cast a shadow of doubt over his future with the team. The disappointing end to the previous season, marked by a playoff collapse, has left Colts fans yearning for stability at the quarterback position.
In this backdrop, Sam Darnold emerges as a tantalizing option for the Colts. Despite a possible dip in his market value post his 2024 campaign with the Minnesota Vikings, Darnold’s skill set could offer Indianapolis a reliable quarterback solution. With a talented offensive arsenal at his disposal, Darnold could find himself in a favorable position to excel in the Colts’ system.
Tennessee Titans
The Tennessee Titans, owners of the top pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, face a pivotal decision regarding their quarterback situation. While conventional wisdom dictates a quarterback selection with the first overall pick, the underwhelming 2025 quarterback draft class prompts a reevaluation of their strategy.
Enter Sam Darnold, a seasoned quarterback who could serve as a bridge for the Titans while also showcasing franchise potential. With uncertainties surrounding the draft’s top quarterback prospects, opting for a proven talent like Darnold could provide Tennessee with stability and experience under center. By avoiding a potential draft reach akin to the Pittsburgh Steelers’ 2022 pick, the Titans could turn to the free-agent market and secure Darnold as their quarterback of the future.
Los Angeles Rams
The Los Angeles Rams, led by the experienced Matthew Stafford, face a looming quarterback conundrum. As Stafford contemplates retirement at 37, the Rams must consider their long-term quarterback succession plan. While the likelihood of Darnold assuming a waiting role in Los Angeles remains slim, the allure of joining forces with head coach Sean McVay could sway the quarterback’s decision.
Darnold’s career resurgence under Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell in 2024 showcased his potential under innovative offensive minds. Given McVay’s reputation for offensive creativity, Darnold could be enticed by the prospect of working within the Rams’ system. Moreover, Darnold’s California roots, hailing from Capistrano Beach and having attended USC, could further cement his fit with the Rams.
In the ever-evolving landscape of NFL quarterbacking, Sam Darnold’s journey to rekindle his career in 2025 presents an intriguing narrative. While the league anticipates the usual suspects for quarterback movement, these unconventional landing spots offer a fresh perspective on Darnold’s potential destinations. As the offseason unfolds, the NFL landscape m