The Minnesota Vikings' plan involving Sam Darnold could not be clearer based on how they've handled his contract negotiations.

The Minnesota Vikings might have a new starting quarterback in 2025. Sam Darnold led the team to a 14-3 record last season, but he could be heading elsewhere after the Vikings made the decision to not use the franchise tag on him, CBS Sports Lead NFL Insider Jonathan Jones has reported .

After weighing all of their options, the Vikings did not place the franchise tag on Darnold ahead of Tuesday’s deadline to do so. As a result, Darnold, who turns 28 years old in a few months, has the ability to sign elsewhere when free agency opens next week.