Raiders Expected to Sign Pro Bowl Quarterback with Projected $123.75 Million Deal
The Las Vegas Raiders are in need of a new starting quarterback this offseason after Aidan O’Connell and Gardner Minshew struggled in 2024. Neither of them is seen as a reliable long-term option at the position.
General manager John Spytek could opt to draft a quarterback early in April’s draft, but Las Vegas might also explore veteran options. Although the free-agent quarterback pool is relatively weak, USA Today’s Jacob Camenker predicts that the Raiders will sign Minnesota Vikings Pro Bowl quarterback Sam Darnold, who is considered the best available free-agent signal-caller.
“Las Vegas has the salary cap space to make significant moves, but after Minshew, O’Connell, and Desmond Ridder posted a combined passer rating of 80.05 in 2024, they need a new quarterback. The Raiders may not secure the top two quarterbacks in the 2025 draft, Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders, so Darnold would provide a solid bridge with upside,” Camenker explained.
“Darnold, who will be 28 soon, is coming off his best season under coach Kevin O’Connell but could be signed at a reasonable price following a poor performance in Minnesota’s final two games,” Camenker added.
Darnold’s future as a starting quarterback seemed uncertain after unsatisfactory runs with the New York Jets and Carolina Panthers, as well as serving as Brock Purdy’s backup in San Francisco during the 2023 season. However, he revived his career in 2024 with the Vikings, helping them achieve a 14-3 record. Darnold threw for 35 touchdowns, 12 interceptions, 4,319 passing yards, and a 66.2% completion rate. He also earned his first Pro Bowl selection and finished third in AP Comeback Player of the Year voting.
Although Darnold had difficulties in Minnesota’s playoff defeat to the Los Angeles Rams and isn’t an elite quarterback, at 27, he would represent a significant upgrade over O’Connell and Minshew. He could thrive in a Raiders offense that features playmakers like wide receiver Jakobi Meyers and All-Pro tight end Brock Bowers.
With an estimated $99 million in cap space, the Raiders have the financial flexibility to sign Darnold while addressing other team needs. Pro Football Focus forecasts a three-year, $123.75 million deal for Darnold, with $70 million guaranteed. Meanwhile, Spotrac projects a four-year, $160.4 million contract, which would amount to over $40 million annually.
While Darnold may not be a top-tier starting quarterback, the former USC star could propel the Raiders back into playoff contention and would fit well with offensive coordinator Chip Kelly. The Raiders should consider targeting the 2018 No. 3 overall pick in free agency this offseason.