The Vikings also could franchise tag Darnold, which would bring him back for one more year at an estimated $41 million, according to Over the Cap. That would allow McCarthy more time to heal, and would give him a full season to sit on the sidelines as a backup quarterback.

The Minnesota Vikings are 13-2 under Sam Darnold. His success complicates future plans with J.J. McCarthy, which could lead Minnesota down an unexpected path.

Social media and analysts from all over the NFL coverage spectrum have started to offer their opinions on the Vikings’ situation. People are offering their support to both Sam Darnold and