The future of Sam Darnold with the Vikings is uncertain following a subpar playoff performance, as the head coach made a revealing statement.

On Monday night, after the Minnesota Vikings lost to the Los Angeles Rams in the playoffs, head coach Kevin O’Connell seemed to shut the door on Sam Darnold returning to the team.

Darnold had a poor performance in the 27-9 loss, with nine sacks, 25-of-40 passing, 245 yards, a touchdown pass, and an interception.

With J.J. McCarthy poised to take over, it seemed unlikely that Darnold would return with the Vikings for the 2025 season.

"O'Connell stated that it is crucial for everyone to consider Sam's accomplishments this year, despite many doubting his ability to lead a team to 14 wins. Although the season did not end as planned, Sam would likely admit that he could have played better tonight. Similarly, O'Connell believes he could have coached better."

Despite signing Darnold in March, the Vikings ultimately drafted McCarthy and suffered an Achilles injury with Darnold in training camp, causing him to miss the season.

Darnold's impressive performance with the New York Jets, where he was known for "seeing ghosts," resulted in a career-high 4,319 yards and 35 touchdowns.

The final two weeks of Darnold's season were the most challenging. Despite losing the NFC North division title to the Detroit Lions, 31-9, the team suffered another blowout on Monday.

In the season, the Vikings lost to only two teams: Detroit in Week 7 and Los Angeles in Week 8.

In the final two weeks of the season, O'Connell expressed disappointment over the absence of offense.

In the offseason, the Vikings must decide whether to retain McCarthy and a veteran backup or maintain Darnold until McCarthy matures.

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