The Minnesota Vikings emerged as one of the season’s biggest surprises, thanks in large part to quarterback Sam Darnold’s impressive performance. In his first year with the team, Darnold made a strong impact, solidifying his place as a legitimate NFL starter. After stints with the New York Jets, Carolina Panthers, and San Francisco 49ers, he flourished under head coach Kevin O’Connell. Darnold wrapped up the season with 4,319 passing yards, 35 touchdowns, and a 66.2% completion rate.
Despite his success, Darnold departed Minnesota in the offseason, signing with the Seattle Seahawks.
Wilson, who played for the Pittsburgh Steelers last season after brief stops in Denver and Seattle, began the year sidelined by a calf injury. However, he eventually took over as the starter, finishing with 2,482 passing yards, 16 touchdowns, and a 63.7% completion rate. He led Pittsburgh to a 10-8 record before falling to the Baltimore Ravens in the playoffs. Meanwhile, the Vikings ended their season with a 14-4 record, suffering a postseason loss to the Los Angeles Rams.
