During Super Bowl week, Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell said quarterback Sam Darnold has earned the right to become a free agent. Whether he'll get a crack at free agency remains to be seen. The Vikings have until Tuesday to use the franchise tag on Darnold.

The Vikings' chances of re-signing Sam Darnold are looking more unlikely as the offseason moves along, sparking an alternative plan.

Minnesota has spent this week at the NFL Combine trying to gauge the market for veteran quarterback Sam Darnold as they determine if they want to place the franchise tag on him. At this point, if the Vikings decide to use the franchise tag on Darnold, it would most likely be because they have found a willing trade partner.