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O'Connell expressed admiration for Darnold's journey, particularly noting that he guided the team to an impressive 14 wins, a significant feat for a quarterback in his inaugural season. He insisted that the challenges faced in the last two games should not overshadow Darnold's overall performance and the resilience he displayed throughout the season.
The Debate Surrounding Darnold's Future
While O'Connell has shown support for Darnold, the disappointing end to the season complicates future decisions for the Vikings. With rookie quarterback JJ McCarthy waiting in the wings, the organization faces a pivotal choice: Should they commit to Darnold, who is likely to attract attention on the free-agent market, or invest in McCarthy’s development as the franchise’s future leader?