March 4 (UPI) -- The Minnesota Vikings are not expected to use the franchise tag on quarterback Sam Darnold. Sources told NFL Network, ESPN and NFL Insider Tony Pauline on Monday about the expected transaction, which could lead Darnold into free agency.

The Minnesota Vikings might have a new starting quarterback in 2025. Sam Darnold led the team to a 14-3 record last season, but he could be heading elsewhere for the upcoming season with the Vikings unlikely to use the franchise tag on him,

The Minnesota Vikings are unlikely to place the franchise tag on quarterback Sam Darnold ahead of the deadline on Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET, Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reported on Monday.