Sam Darnold’s shaky finish shouldn’t ruin his impressive season or impact his future. Several NFL teams need a franchise quarterback and Darnold proved he can be that guy in Minnesota, becoming the first quarterback to record 14 wins in his first season with a team.

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

Nov 24, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Keenan Allen (13) makes a catch over Minnesota Vikings cornerback Shaquill Griffin (1) and after replay is ruled out of bounds on his left foot touching the line during the second quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-Imagn Images

Vikings have several areas that they must address in the offseason, includingthe fatal that must be fixed on the offensive line

Kwesi Adofo-Mensah called it the “golden question.” Actually, it’s the Vikings, so it’s more like the never-ending question. What are they planning to do at quarterback next season? The context has changed but not the question,