Darnold is cited as the cautionary tale of premature bust labels, as Jets drafted him No.3 in 2018 and later found a career-year with Minnesota in 2024, illustrating how a fresh setting and coaching can unlock a QB’s potential. The piece frames Fields similarly, hinting at how the right environment could alter his trajectory.

Darnold’s resurgence lands him as a top fantasy QB7 last year, a peak many thought unreachable given prior inconsistencies. The Vikings' scheme under O’Connell is cited as the catalyst, making him a prime target for 2025 value plays, particularly when paired with Jefferson, Addison, and Hockenson in stacked formats.

Darnold’s Vikings stint is framed as a cautionary tale: a talent with a high ceiling when supported by a design-forward offense, but one whose ceiling hasn’t translated consistently to fantasy glory. The text uses Darnold’s pre-Vikings numbers to contextualize the potential swing of McCarthy’s rookie season, highlighting the risk and the upside of Minnesota’s offensive design.

Darnold’s breakout for Minnesota showcased how late-drafted signal-callers can emerge as top fantasy producers when the system, coaching, and surrounding cast converge. His leap to a top-10 finish demonstrates the power of a QB-friendly scheme, improved protection, and weapons that maximize efficiency, serving as a blueprint for 2025 breakout candidates.

The article notes Darnold’s role in the Vikings’ 2024 passing game and its impact on Jefferson’s counting stats. Darnold’s performance is framed in the context of a risk-filled transition that could influence 2025 passing volume and, by extension, Jefferson’s fantasy ceiling.