After Kirk Cousins left the Minnesota Vikings in free agency to join the Atlanta Falcons, the team is currently undergoing a bit of a rebuild.
In response, the Vikings selected J.J. McCarthy as their quarterback of the future in the 2024 NFL Draft in addition to signing Sam Darnold in free agency.
After watching the Detroit Lions, Green Bay Packers, and Chicago Bears all improve in the offseason, Minnesota might not be able to compete in the NFC North, but the focus of the 2024 NFL season should be on the players’ development.
Left tackle Christian Darrisaw is eligible for an extension, so the Vikings do have some important business to take care of before the season begins.
After being selected in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft, Darrisaw has been playing on the left side of the offensive line and is deserving of a raise.
According to Alec Lewis of The Athletic, despite his questionable injury history, it appears like Minnesota is still interested in signing him to a contract extension.
The Vikings might exercise caution in light of Darrisaw’s past injuries. In 2022, he had two concussions. Injuries to his groin and ankle have also limited his availability. Lewis wrote, “Darrisaw’s willingness to wait may determine whether or not he signs an extension” (via The Purple Persuasion).
The Vikings, who need to make investments in their offensive line to support McCarthy’s development, would be well served by locking up one of the top left tackles in the NFL.
Although Darrisaw’s history of injuries is worrisome, it’s difficult to locate players of his caliber on the free market.
