Sources – Vikings agree to 1-year deal with QB Sam Darnold

The Minnesota Vikings have agreed to a one-year deal with quarterback Sam Darnold, sources confirmed to ESPN.

The Vikings had an opening at quarterback after longtime franchise star Kirk Cousins ​​agreed to terms on a four-year contract with the Atlanta Falcons on Monday.

After five seasons split between the New York Jets and Carolina Panthers, Darnold signed a one-year deal with the 49ers last offseason in hopes of learning from coach Kyle Shanahan and reestablishing his value as a potential holder.

In San Francisco, Darnold won the No. 2 job behind starter Brock Purdy, leading to a preseason trade that sent quarterback Trey Lance to the Dallas Cowboys. Darnold appeared in 10 games, mostly in cleanup, throwing for 297 yards with 2 touchdowns and an interception.

Darnold started in the Week 18 finale against the Los Angeles Rams after the Niners clinched the top seed in Week 17. He was 16 of 26 for 189 yards and a touchdown in a 21-20 loss.

The third overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, Darnold spent three seasons with the Jets before being traded to Carolina in 2021.

NFL Network first reported Darnold's deal with the Vikings.

ESPN's Nick Wagoner contributed to this report.