Vikings QB dilemma: Justin Jefferson avoids media, reason for recent offensive struggles after Sam Darnold's revenge against Minnesota

The Minnesota Vikings are enduring a stark reversal of fortune, with quarterback decisions that have backfired dramatically. One year ago, Minnesota celebrated a thrilling 30-27 overtime victory over the Chicago Bears, led by Sam Darnolds 330 passing yards and two touchdowns. At that point, the Vikings were 9-2 heading into December, poised for a playoff run and an NFC North title, and Darnold was shaping up as a potential long-term starter under head coach Kevin OConnell and GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah.

Fast forward twelve months, and the outlook has collapsed. On Sunday, the Vikings suffered a shutout loss, 26-0, to the playoff-bound Seattle Seahawks, marking their lowest point since a 34-0 defeat to Green Bay in 2007. The blow was amplified by Darnolds presence, now excelling as Seattles quarterback and leading to Minnesotas humbling defeat. Following the game, star wide receiver Justin Jefferson left without speaking to the media for the first time in his six-year career, though he shared a brief postgame moment with Darnold on the field.

Darnold, now with the Seahawks, threw for 148 yards on 14-of-26 attempts without scoring, while Jefferson recorded career lows with just two catches for four yards. The performance underscored three harsh realities for the Vikings:

1. Letting Darnold leave for free agency in favor of J.J. McCarthy appears to be a major misstep, revealing how crucial Darnold was as a winning quarterback when supported by a solid running game and defense.
2. The Vikings must return McCarthy to the starting lineup once he clears concussion protocol, as rookie backup Max Brosmer was clearly unprepared for NFL action, resulting in multiple sacks and interceptions, including a disastrous play that led to an 85-yard touchdown by Seattle.
3. Minnesota will need to pursue a veteran backup capable of competing for the starting job in 2026, potentially targeting quarterbacks such as Kyler Murray, Mac Jones, Kenny Pickett, or Sam Howell, along with high-upside young prospects like Trey Lance or Malik Willis.

The situation highlights the challenge of finding reliable quarterbacks on the market. Past examples include Darnolds rise from the Vikings discard pile, Baker Mayfield in Tampa Bay, Daniel Jones with the Colts, and Geno Smiths resurgence in Seattle. OConnell faces a difficult choice as the Vikings aim to establish a long-term solution at quarterback.

After a season that began with playoff expectations, the Vikings now enter December at 4-8, facing five remaining games and a critical quarterback dilemma. The once-promising floor of the franchise has vanished, leaving a season of uncertainty and the hard task of rebuilding confidence in the most pivotal position on the field.

Author: Sophia Brooks