The 2025 NFL quarterback carousel is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and unpredictable in recent memory, and one name is beginning to make waves more than any other: Sam Darnold. Once considered a potential franchise quarterback, Darnold’s career trajectory has been anything but straightforward. However, according to NFL analyst Rich Eisen, Darnold’s role in the 2025 QB market could have a huge impact on how teams approach both the draft and free agency.

Darnold, who was drafted by the New York Jets as the third overall pick in 2018, has endured a rollercoaster career filled with high expectations, tough breaks, and several change-of-scenery moments. However, his recent performances, combined with a potentially fruitful situation with the San Francisco 49ers, have revitalized his standing in the NFL and may make him one of the most intriguing players in the upcoming QB carousel.

A Second Chance with San Francisco

Sam Darnold’s stint with the San Francisco 49ers has given him new life. After bouncing around the league, including his less-than-ideal tenure with the Carolina Panthers, Darnold was given an opportunity to work within one of the NFL’s most dynamic offenses. The 49ers’ system, led by head coach Kyle Shanahan, has been known to bring out the best in quarterbacks, with players like Jimmy Garoppolo, Brock Purdy, and even C.J. Beathard having success in the system.

In his time with the 49ers, Darnold has shown glimpses of the talent that made him a top draft pick in 2018. He has thrived in Shanahan’s offense, benefiting from a strong supporting cast, including weapons like Deebo Samuel, George Kittle, and Christian McCaffrey. As a result, Darnold’s stock has risen again, and the 2025 offseason could offer him the chance to sign a more lucrative contract and, potentially, even start for a team in need of a signal-caller.

Rich Eisen’s Take: The Importance of Darnold’s Impact

NFL Network’s Rich Eisen, a longtime commentator and insider, recently weighed in on Darnold’s resurgence and its potential implications for the 2025 QB carousel. Eisen, who has closely followed the quarterback market over the years, believes that Darnold’s situation is pivotal for several reasons.

“Sam Darnold’s success with the 49ers could have a massive impact on how teams view quarterbacks in the 2025 offseason,” Eisen said. “If Darnold continues to improve and perform well in the 49ers’ offense, we could see a major shift in how teams approach both veteran quarterbacks and the rookie quarterback class in the 2025 NFL Draft.”

Eisen went on to discuss how teams may begin to reconsider what they look for in a quarterback. Historically, teams have often sought the highest-potential rookie quarterbacks in the draft, hoping to find a star. However, Darnold’s development with a strong supporting cast has shown that the right system can unlock a quarterback’s potential, making veteran quarterbacks like Darnold more attractive to teams.

“The 2025 QB class is deep with talented prospects,” Eisen continued. “But if Sam Darnold proves that he can be a successful starter in the NFL, we could see teams hesitate on reaching for quarterbacks in the first round of the draft. Darnold could become the poster child for teams looking to get a veteran QB that fits into a strong system and has room for development.”

The 2025 NFL Draft and the Quarterback Landscape

The 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be loaded with top-tier quarterback talent. There are several elite prospects who could be taken with the first few picks, but Darnold’s resurgence could make teams reconsider their strategy.

If Darnold can prove he’s the type of quarterback who can succeed with the right coaching and talent around him, it might force teams to think twice before selecting a quarterback in the early rounds of the draft. Teams like the Atlanta Falcons, Minnesota Vikings, and even the Las Vegas Raiders could be contenders for Darnold’s services, given their uncertain quarterback situations heading into the 2025 offseason.

Veteran QBs in Demand

Rich Eisen also noted that Darnold’s potential success in San Francisco could spark a renewed interest in veteran quarterbacks across the league. “There’s a trend in the NFL right now where teams are looking for quarterbacks who may not have had success earlier in their careers but can thrive in the right system,” Eisen said. “Darnold’s story could lead other teams to take a chance on a veteran quarterback who is looking for a fresh start.”

As teams around the NFL continue to search for a solution at quarterback, they may now be more inclined to look for experienced players who have the tools to succeed but need the right environment to unlock their potential. This trend could play a significant role in shaping the landscape of the 2025 QB carousel.

Darnold’s Impact on the 2025 QB Carousel

Darnold’s role in the 2025 QB carousel is also crucial because of the sheer number of teams that will be looking for quarterbacks. With several veteran quarterbacks possibly on the move or retiring, including names like Tom Brady (who might still be playing at that point), Aaron Rodgers, and even some young quarterbacks like Tua Tagovailoa who may not work out for their teams, the market for QBs is bound to be highly competitive.

Darnold’s ability to step up and provide a solid, if not spectacular, option for teams looking for stability could make him one of the more sought-after free-agent quarterbacks. Teams that might have previously gone for rookie quarterbacks in the draft could now look to Darnold as a viable option to build around for the next few years, particularly if they have the right offensive system in place.

Conclusion: A Pivotal Moment for Sam Darnold and the NFL

As the 2025 NFL season and offseason approach, all eyes will be on Sam Darnold. If he can continue to grow and excel with the 49ers, his role in the upcoming QB carousel could be a game-changer. Rich Eisen’s comments underscore the impact Darnold could have on how teams evaluate quarterbacks moving forward. Whether he becomes a starting quarterback for a new team or remains a valuable asset as a backup, Darnold’s performance in the coming months could have long-lasting effects on the NFL draft and free-agent market for quarterbacks.

For now, Sam Darnold’s career trajectory is once again on the rise, and as the 2025 QB carousel heats up, he’s a name that will be at the forefront of discussions in the NFL world.