Everyone will remember Sam Darnold for the 2024 season as a QB who could not lead his team to a wild-card win. And not for a QB who had a spectacular offseason run. Sam’s future with the Vikings stands on a threshold. Will they offer him a ‘fair’ contract extension or let him walk and roll the dice with someone else? These are a few big questions, the answers to which we’ll be looking for in the offseason. But for now, the coaching drama is ramping up. So, what’s the latest tea?

In their latest move, Shad Khan and Liam Coen have teamed up with Vikings coach Grant Udinski. The 29-year-old will now have to part ways with QB Sam Darnold, which might sting for the Vikings. After all, their offense showed major improvement under Grant. And for Sam?

Well, it’s a tough one. He set career highs in completion percentage (66.2%), yards (4,319), and touchdown passes (35) with Grant’s guidance. Criticism over the postseason loss and an uncertain future adds to the quarterback’s current burdens. Now, losing his key mentor? Yeah, when it rains, it definitely pours.

Udinski joined the Vikings back in 2022 under head coach Kevin O’Connell. Before that, he was a coaching assistant for the Panthers for two years. And now? He will be shaping the Jaguars’ offense as their offensive coordinator for the Jaguars. Grant’s only 29, and at this age, you’ve to say he’s building a stellar coaching career.

You’ve also got to give credit to Shad Khan and the new head coach, Liam Coen. The two of them are moving fast, grabbing all the missing pieces for their puzzle. 

Liam Coen’s welcoming note to Grant…

Liam Coen and the Jaguars made a couple of big moves last week. They brought in Anthony Campanile as their new defensive coordinator, and then, a few days later, Matt Edwards as the defensive line coach. Coen knows being a head coach is a huge responsibility, so he’s on top of all the offseason stuff. Whether this Marvel-assembled team will work out? That’s something for later. But now, with Grant Udinski as the new OC, Coen’s excited to have him on board.

“Grant will bring a wealth of knowledge, energy, and a winning mindset to help lead our offense here in Jacksonville. He is a rising star in this league that has been a pillar of success for the Vikings organization. And we can’t wait to have him lead our offense,” said Liam. That’s a pretty warm welcome from the new HC. Looks like things are falling into place for the Jaguars.

If Grant can work his magic with Trevor Lawrence as he did with Sam Darnold, it’s going to be a win-win for the Jaguars. But with him leaving, there’s now a coaching gap the Vikings’ Kevin O’Connell’s got to fill. Honestly, these coaching moves keep us entertained and occupied while awaiting the Super Bowl.