Titans linked to veteran replacement for Will Levis

The Tennessee Titans are underdogs against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday. Whether or not the Vikings successfully run away with the game may depend on the form of their veteran quarterback Sam Darnold.

A few weeks ago, it looked like Darnold was on his way to becoming the hottest free-agent quarterback of the offseason, but his form has experienced a recent dip over the previous few weeks. He threw three interceptions against a terrible Jacksonville Jaguars defense last weekend.

Darnold has thrown just three touchdowns and five interceptions in Minnesota's last two games. Despite those lackluster showings, Darnold has generally been an efficient passer this season that doesn't turn the ball over.

As a whole, Darnold has had a very good season for the 7-2 Vikings and he's going to be a starter for a team next year. That may not be in Minnesota with first-round pick J.J. McCarthy waiting in the wings. Darnold could still be the hottest quarterback on the free agent.

A recent ESPN insiders article suggests that Nashville could be Darnold's next destination.

"Let's go with the Titans. I've identified at least six teams that either need a bridge quarterback or could entertain the notion soon. The Titans are in the latter category. Will Levis has the next eight games to show he can be the long-term answer at quarterback. Maybe he proves the Titans right. But if his penchant for interceptions reemerges, the Titans will need contingencies in 2025. Darnold is a proven commodity who would give Tennessee a bridge starter option while it continues to develop Levis or selects a quarterback high in the 2025 draft. So in this scenario, he would be the starter for coach Brian Callahan."

As strange as it might sound, Darnold might be the perfect option for the Titans this offseason.

With a draft class that lacks high-end options, and Darnold being the best free-agent-to-be, the Titans could find themselves satisfied with a veteran bridge option if Will Levis continues to struggle down the stretch.

Signing Darnold would give the Titans an answer at quarterback for a season or two. GM Ran Carthon wouldn't have to spend a premium draft pick on a questionable QB prospect. As the Titans careen towards a top-five selection in 2025, they are going to have a chance at a blue-chip player at a different position. They can't afford to repeat the Jake Locker mistake where they pass on someone like Tyron Smith, Ryan Kerrigan, Cameron Jordan, or J.J. Watt to overdraft a quarterback.

Bringing in a bridge quarterback like Darnold means they can add more talent to the roster and focus on picking the right quarterback in 2026 or 2027. Darnold is currently proving that you can be a legitimate postseason contender with him as your quarterback. The Titans may be interested in recreating that next season.

Darnold will have a chance to make a good impression on the Titans' front office and coaching staff on Sunday. Don't be surprised if a big game against Dennard Wilson's defense turns into serious interest in the offseason.