Los Angeles is reportedly seeking to trade Stafford, which opens the possibility of Minnesota using the franchise tag on Darnold before orchestrating a deal to send him to the Rams. Stafford still has two years left on his $160 million contract, while Darnold is projected to command a four-year, $160 million deal if he enters free agency unrestricted.

Though Darnold, at 27 years old, is a decade younger and coming off a strong season, Stafford brings a decorated résumé, including multiple Pro Bowl selections and a Super Bowl victory. Darnold, drafted third overall by the Jets in 2018, had struggled early in his career but revitalized his reputation with Minnesota in 2024.

Over his career, Stafford has amassed 59,800+ passing yards and 377 touchdowns, cementing himself as one of the league’s top quarterbacks. His connection with Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell—who was Stafford’s offensive coordinator during the Rams’ 2021 Super Bowl-winning season—adds further credibility to the trade rumors.

Acquiring Stafford on a short-term deal would give the Vikings a veteran leader for a 2025 playoff push, while also allowing McCarthy additional time to develop into the team’s future franchise quarterback.