Rumors are roaring at the NFL Scouting Combine, and Sam Darnold seems to be at the center of it all. While the Vikings say all options are on the table, most of the buzz in Indianapolis swirls around Minnesota franchise-tagging Darnold and trading him.

It was suggested that the Minnesota Vikings could place the franchise tag on quarterback Sam Darnold in part because of concerns related to where 2024 first-round draft pick J.J. McCarthy was in his recovery from the full meniscus repair he needed this past summer.

Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell speaks glowingly of 2024 first-round pick JJ McCarthy and refused to hide the pride he feels recalling Sam Darnold's first year in Minnesota's offensive system.

Notable highlights for the Vikings included owner Zygi Wilf and head coach Kevin O’Connell receiving A+ grades.

The Miami Dolphins are the top-ranked team, followed by the Minnesota Vikings, for the second consecutive season in the NFL Players Association report card.

Under the "sunlight is the best disinfectant" theory, in 2023 the NFLPA began releasing report cards to hold their employers to account publicly. Strategically released before the opening of free agency each year, the NFLPA says the program has worked as intended.