I think it's time...past time...people realize that the mental and chemistry aspects of his game are just unknowns in this setting.
He had bad early outings...on some tragically bad teams, coaching included, with very limited weapons. None of that helps to develop steady decisions or even a balanced approach to the game.
He also was better at Carolina than Baker was, and has since had a season with the most recent NFC Superbowl team to get his head right.
I'm optimistic, but...it's kinda meaningless. This time last year, KC was down two important players and lost to the kittens, who looked brilliant while the Chiefs looked like they couldn't hold onto a pass to save their lives. That problem reoccurred all season, yet they managed to get rings and a Lombardi. It's also worth mentioning that Mahomes tends to have a few "pick dispenser" games every season, but Reid keeps their defense and their lines in good shape, finding fresh young talent when the established players get hurt/too expensive, and they are now the new benchmark.
The Vikings need great QB play...no argument...but, even when we've had it, we've had inconsistent/terrible protection, similarly bad trench play, and some defenses that trailed the league.
For Darnold to really shine for the team...and hopefully, quiet the hate-brigade that's always so quick to pounce on our own QBs...KOC and KAM need to have the whole team doing better, clicking more smoothly, and looking like the deep postseason threats we need the Vikings to be. Sam can do what he can control, and I'm not worried (much) about our skill players (with KJ and Addison gone, along with their drops), but regardless how well our new QB plays, the whole team has to reflect improvement, or it'll all be his fault. Sadly, not just with the fans, as even the analysts - who should know better - will measure a QB's worth by the whole team's effort.