Minnesota Vikings QB Sam Darnold Announces Resignation After Kevin O’Connell’s Decision to Name Starting QB
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold has announced his resignation from the team, following a decision by head coach Kevin O’Connell to name a different player as the starting quarterback for the remainder of the season. Darnold, who joined the Vikings in the offseason after a stint with the Carolina Panthers, made the unexpected announcement on social media late last night, citing his frustration with the team’s recent decision-making and his future aspirations.
In his statement, Darnold expressed disappointment over O’Connell’s choice to start backup quarterback Nick Mullens, leaving Darnold as a second-string option. The Vikings had been struggling with inconsistent quarterback play, especially after Kirk Cousins was sidelined due to an Achilles injury earlier in the season. Despite being brought in to provide veteran leadership and depth, Darnold’s role has diminished in recent weeks, as Mullens has been chosen to lead the offense during this critical phase of the season.
“I came to Minnesota to compete for a starting job and help this team win,” Darnold wrote in his resignation post. “I respect the decision, but I believe my time here has come to an end. I’m grateful for the opportunity, but I’m moving on to pursue my next chapter.”
O’Connell, addressing the media shortly after Darnold’s announcement, acknowledged the difficult nature of the decision but emphasized the need to make choices that would give the team the best chance to succeed moving forward. “Sam has been a pro throughout this process, and we wish him nothing but the best,” O’Connell said.
Darnold’s resignation marks a dramatic turn in a season full of quarterback controversies and uncertainty for the Vikings, who now face additional questions about their future under center.
