“Free Justin Jefferson”: Fans outraged after Vikings set to replace Kirk Cousins with 49ers QB Sam Darnold

The Minnesota Vikings were one of those unlucky teams to lose their starting quarterback to a season-ending injury last year. Kirk Cousins tore his Achilles and was rehabbing to have a fresh start with the team in 2024. However, the signal-caller got embroiled in a contract impasse and ultimately decided to leave the franchise.

Cousins joined the Atlanta Falcons on a four-year contract. Meanwhile, the Vikings didn’t waste their time longing for the QB. The team is reportedly going to secure the services of Sam Darnold to possibly make him a starter under head coach Kevin O’Connell.

Vikings expected to sign Sam Darnold to replace Kirk Cousins

The Vikings are making waves in the quarterback market, with reports indicating their intention to sign Sam Darnold as a replacement for Kirk Cousins. According to NFL Network‘s Ian Rapaport, the team is eyeing a one-year, $10 million deal to bring him on board for the 2024 season.

The signal-caller spent three seasons with the New York Jets, accumulating 8,907 passing yards. He completed 59.8% of his throws with 45 touchdowns and 39 interceptions. He later joined the Carolina Panthers and went 8-9 as a starter over two seasons before joining the San Francisco 49ers in 2023. He competed for the backup role against Trey Lance, and appeared in 10 games.

The Vikings are in a holding pattern, eagerly anticipating Sam Darnold’s decision on the potential offer. No agreements can be cemented until March 13. Selected as the third overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, this player combines promise and seasoned skills. He’s had his fair share of interceptions and touchdowns in his career, but the arm strength that made him a top draft pick out of USC still stands out.

Fans furious after Vikings linked with Sam Darnold

Jefferson has expressed his desire to secure a lucrative deal with the Vikings. But he has made it clear that having Kirk Cousins as his quarterback is crucial to his decision. With Darnold in the picture, Jefferson’s future with the team appears increasingly uncertain.

The mere mention of Darnold’s name has ignited a storm of protest among the fanbase, with social media flooded with expressions of frustration and disappointment.

A fan wrote, “Free Justin Jefferson.”

A netizen wrote, “Justice for Justin Jefferson.”

Adding to the mix is the imminent NFL Draft, with the Vikings’ draft strategy up in the air. The Chicago Bears are in the prime position and are not looking to make any deals with their division rivals. Scoring a top-tier quarterback like Caleb Williams seemed like a Hail Mary pass. The Vikings are in a position where they may need to consider trade options involving Jefferson in order to solidify their future at the quarterback position.

It is much to the chagrin of fans who view Jefferson as the heart and soul of the team’s offense. Some started speculating about his next destination in the NFL.

A fan wrote, “Fields is a Bronco or a Raider then.”

Meanwhile, Jefferson is dominating on the field and cannot be ignored. Despite facing obstacles, he still put up impressive numbers with over 1,000 receiving yards and five touchdowns in the 2023 season. Nevertheless, his status with the Vikings is up in the air, keeping fans on their toes and preparing for any outcome.