"Darnold’s price might continue to go up as teams evaluate the draft and available free-agent quarterbacks," The Athletic's Dianna Russini wrote. "Front office executives believe that his experience and performance in Minnesota this season will make Darnold’s market competitive in March."

The game had suddenly gone sideways for the Minnesota Vikings after their 11-point lead on the Chicago Bears evaporated in the closing seconds.

The Vikings are rumored to be okay with losing Sam Darnold this offseason and transitioning to J.J. McCarthy if Darnold is a hot commodity.