Report: Vikings Render Verdict on Sam Darnold, Franchise Tag

Steve Roberts-Imagn Images.

A Sam Darnold trade represented a long shot in the first place, and it now appears the notion was merely the best-laid plan from fans.

Report: Vikings Render Verdict on Sam Darnold, Franchise Tag

The Minnesota Vikings will not apply the franchise tag on Darnold, 27, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, which means general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah will not trade the first-time Pro Bowler.

Kirby Lee-Imagn Images.

Instead, Darnold will hit open free-agency if he doesn’t agree to a team-friendly extension in Minnesota.

Schefter tweeted Monday night, about 19 hours before the league’s franchise tag deadline: “Vikings QB Sam Darnold is unlikely to be franchise tagged ahead of Tuesday’s 4 pm ET deadline, per league sources. Minnesota still is interested in working to re-sign Darnold, but it is likely to be without any tag.”

Star Tribune‘s Ben Goessling provided context: “Sources said at the combine last week they didn’t expect a Darnold tag, pointing out it would effectively function like a no-trade clause. Now, it’s either a new deal in Minnesota or another team next week.”