The Minnesota Vikings declined to apply the franchise tag to Sam Darnold before Tuesday's deadline, meaning the quarterback is likely to hit free agency next week.

Dallas signed defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa before the franchise tag deadline Tuesday and Minnesota declined to give the tag to quarterback Sam Darnold, clearing the way for him to hit the open market next week.

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.