Is Sam Darnold playing tonight vs Rams? Exploring Vikings QB's status for Wild Card clash

Sam Darnold's availability is a key storyline for the Minnesota Vikings's Wild Card showdown against the Los Angeles Rams. The Monday night matchup was relocated to State Farm Stadium in Arizona due to wildfires in Los Angeles.

Despite appearing on this week's injury report with a quad issue, Darnold's status remains clear for the playoff clash. The Vikings's quarterback participated fully in practice sessions and carries no game-time designation heading into Monday's contest.

The 27-year-old quarterback seeks redemption after a disappointing regular-season finale. His struggles against Detroit (18-of-41, 166 yards) contributed to Minnesota's 9-31 loss. That defeat cost the Vikings the NFC North title and the conference's top seed.

Minnesota Vikings QB Sam Darnold during an NFL game. (Credits: IMAGN)

Sam Darnold's 2024 transformation has turned heads across the NFL. His stellar campaign includes 4,319 passing yards (254.1 per game) and 35 touchdowns against 12 interceptions. He has added a ground threat with 212 rushing yards and one touchdown on 67 carries.

The playoff spotlight intensifies the stakes for Darnold's future in Minnesota. His one-year, $10 million contract expires after the season. The Vikings drafted J.J. McCarthy tenth overall in 2024, though the rookie's torn meniscus has kept him sidelined all year.

Revenge match features crucial coaching connection and Sam Darnold a chance

Quarterback Sam Darnold in action for Minnesota Vikings against Detroit Lions in an NFL game. (Credits: IMAGN)

The Wild Card matchup allows Sam Darnold to rewrite October's script. The Rams claimed that the regular-season meeting 20-30 exposed the Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores with Puka Nacua's surprise return from injury.

This coaching battle adds extra intrigue through personal connections. Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell squares off against his former mentor, Sean McVay. O'Connell coordinated the LA Rams's offense three seasons ago during their Super Bowl victory.

Darnold has proven his resilience throughout 2024. After three NFL teams cast him aside in six years, he earned a Pro Bowl selection and MVP consideration. His ability to bounce back showed earlier this season when he recovered from a poor outing against Jacksonville.

Minnesota enters as 2.5-point favorites against a hot Rams squad that won eight of their final ten games. The Minnesota Vikings know their path forward - victory sends them to Philadelphia for a divisional-round matchup with the Eagles.

Kickoff is scheduled for 8:00 PM ET on Monday, with national coverage on ABC and ESPN. For Darnold, it's more than just another playoff game - it's a chance to cement his place as Minnesota's quarterback of the future.