If our Sam cannot get his old self then its a Yes for Me for J.J. Buckets….

The Minnesota Vikings’ signed quarterback Sam Darnold during free agency this offseason in the hopes that he provides a smooth bridge transition to eventual starting rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy. At this stage of the offseason, it’s quite clear the Vikings plan is to start Darnold for most, if not all, the regular season.

This is not a knock to J.J. McCarthy in any sort of way, but it’s been preached and heavily emphasized by head coach Kevin O’Connell that they are going to be very patient with McCarthy’s development.

Despite the coaching staff being patient with McCarthy, it already sounds like Darnold is flourishing in O’Connell’s scheme. One beat writer for the Minnesota Vikings had high praise for what Darnold has been able to do over the last three days at mandatory minicamp.

Sam Darnold looks calm and confident running the Minnesota Vikings’ offense
According to Alec Lewis (The Athletic), Darnold has looked calm, confident, and showed consistency over mandatory minicamp taking place this week from Tuesday, June 4th to Thursday, June 6th. Not only did the 26-year-old impress, but he also took every first-team rep over the course of those three days.