NFL Rumors: Vikings Hope 49ers HC Helped QB Darnold Reach Potential amid Cousins Exit

The Minnesota Vikings have downgraded at quarterback entering the 2024 season, going from Kirk Cousins to Sam Darnold.

However, the Vikings are hoping Darnold benefitted from his time spent with the San Francisco 49ers as the backup to Brock Purdy in 2023 and can reach his potential next season.

"Team officials are hoping that a season under the tutelage of Kyle Shanahan as San Francisco's backup helps Darnold finally live up to his potential as the third pick of the 2018 draft (Jets)," according to The Athletic's Mike Jones. "But it's a gamble."

Saying it's a gamble might be an understatement.

Darnold appeared in 10 games for the 49ers last season, completing 28 of 46 passes for 297 yards and two touchdowns against one interception. He also rushed for 15 yards and one score but had three fumbles to go along with it.

The 26-year-old has had trouble protecting the ball since being selected by the New York Jets third overall in the 2018 draft out of USC, and it's hard to envision he'll miraculously get better in 2024.

If Darnold struggles for the Vikings next season, the franchise doesn't have a better option to take over. Nick Mullens and Jaren Hall are the only other quarterbacks currently on the roster, though Minnesota might select a quarterback in this spring's draft who could be a better option.