Vikings consider Daniel Jones as backup option to Sam Darnold in playoffs

Why it matters: The Vikings are evaluating their quarterback depth chart and considering Daniel Jones as a potential backup to starter Sam Darnold for the upcoming playoff game against the Los Angeles Rams.

What's new: Jones, who was signed by the Vikings to the 53-man roster after spending time on the practice squad, joins current backup Nick Mullens as options behind Darnold.

Yes, but: Coach Kevin O'Connell has not confirmed whether Mullens or Jones will be Darnold's backup, keeping the decision fluid.

What to watch: The potential shift in the quarterback depth chart comes after Darnold's poor performance in the last game, raising questions about his effectiveness and the need for a reliable backup option.

Quotes:

• O'Connell on the backup situation: "We're doing everything we can to get Sam ready to go, but at the same time, having all those guys absorbing the game plan. It's such a fluid thing here the rest of the way."
• O'Connell on Jones' role: "We're going to do whatever it takes to give us the best chance to win."

By the numbers:

• Darnold started all 17 regular-season games, while Mullens appeared in relief four times.
• Darnold had a 34.5% off-target rate in the last game, his second-worst of his career.
• Jones was benched by the Giants after 10 games before being waived and signed by the Vikings.

The bottom line: The Vikings are exploring their options at the backup quarterback position to ensure they have the best chance of success in the playoffs.

Vikings consider Daniel Jones as backup option to Sam Darnold in playoffs

Why it matters: The Vikings are evaluating their quarterback depth chart and considering Daniel Jones as a potential backup to starter Sam Darnold for the upcoming playoff game against the Los Angeles Rams.

What's new: Jones, who was signed by the Vikings to the 53-man roster after spending time on the practice squad, joins current backup Nick Mullens as options behind Darnold.

Yes, but: Coach Kevin O'Connell has not confirmed whether Mullens or Jones will be Darnold's backup, keeping the decision fluid.

What to watch: The potential shift in the quarterback depth chart comes after Darnold's poor performance in the last game, raising questions about his effectiveness and the need for a reliable backup option.

Quotes:

• O'Connell on the backup situation: "We're doing everything we can to get Sam ready to go, but at the same time, having all those guys absorbing the game plan. It's such a fluid thing here the rest of the way."
• O'Connell on Jones' role: "We're going to do whatever it takes to give us the best chance to win."

By the numbers:

• Darnold started all 17 regular-season games, while Mullens appeared in relief four times.
• Darnold had a 34.5% off-target rate in the last game, his second-worst of his career.
• Jones was benched by the Giants after 10 games before being waived and signed by the Vikings.

The bottom line: The Vikings are exploring their options at the backup quarterback position to ensure they have the best chance of success in the playoffs.