Kwesi Trying to Sell Sam Darnold Propaganda Because What Other Choice Does He Have?

The Minnesota Vikings were expected to draft a quarterback early on in April’s 2024 NFL Draft, even before Kirk Cousins left town to sign with the Atlanta Falcons. Now that Kirko is gone, it’s assumed they are all but guaranteed to go QB with their first round pick.

But there’s a problem. The Vikings do not hold a position (No. 11 overall) that guarantees them a shot at any of the top-tier QB talent next month. Thus, it’s very possible general manager Kwesi-Adofo Mensah needs to move up, in order to have a chance at Drake Maye or J.J. McCarthy, etc.

Minnesota Vikings try to sell confidence in Sam Darnold

That’s why Adofo-Mensah tried to send a message to rival organizations on Thursday, during the Vikings free agency press conference, when he told reporters (while keeping a straight face) that he’s comfortable rolling into week one with the newly acquired Sam Darnold, if the top of the draft doesn’t shake out like they hope.

Adofo-Mensah said he's not locked into drafting a QB next month. "We have the flexibility to go either way," he said, after signing Sam Darnold.

— Kevin Seifert (@SeifertESPN) March 14, 2024

Related: Minnesota Vikings Next Franchise QB Odds, Following Kirk Cousins’ Departure

If there’s one thing you never want to be, as an NFL general manager trying to swing a blockbuster trade on the first day of the draft, it’s desperate. If Kwesi calls the Chargers (#5 overall) on April 25 (draft night), and they know he’ll do whatever it takes to move ahead of QB hungry teams like the Giants and Titans right behind them, then they will try to squeeze every last ounce of desperation out of him.

I believe that Kwesi-Adofo Mensah has the utmost confidence in Kevin O’Connell’s ability to get the best out of any quarterback the general manager hands him. I hope Kwesi really will walk away from any trade where the other team is forcing him to get desperate. If they really believe McCarthy or Maye (whoever) is the next GOAT, fine. Give up whatever is necessary.

Related: Vikings Reportedly Offered Kirk Cousins a Multi-Year Deal with Guarantees in Year-2

Otherwise, I’d prefer they do anything other than get desperate, including Sam Darnold. I’d rather they lose 15 games next season, before getting desperate in the draft. Losing double-digit games won’t ruin your franchise. Trading the farm for a 1st round QB who doesn’t pan out can.