The Vikings general manager told reporters Thursday that Darnold is among the “good options” the Vikings have at quarterback while adding that J.J. McCarthy has returned to on-field training.

Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell seemed to speak about quarterback Sam Darnold with an air of finality after the team's wild-card round loss vs. the Rams.

Sam Darnold was supposed to be a one-year bridge to J.J. McCarthy, who would have had a chance to earn the starting job during the season. But then McCarthy hurt his knee, Minnesota sidelined him for his rookie campaign and Darnold went on to throw for more than 4,300 yards and 35 touchdowns.

Sam Darnold's breakout season with the Minnesota Vikings concluded on a sour note. Signed to a one-year deal after six erratic NFL seasons, Darnold made the most of what could have been his final starting opportunity.

Should the Vikings pay Darnold after his (mostly) excellent season? Or should they go with McCarthy and spend that money at other positions?

The Minnesota Vikings had their wildly successful season come to an end with a 27-9 loss to the Los Angeles Rams in the Wild Card round of the playoffs, and after a rough outing for quarterback Sam Darnold,