Given the way J.J. McCarthy played (when available) in 2025, the Vikings find themselves in the market for at least one notable quarterback addition. The manner in which the team goes about bringing in a new passer will make for an interesting offseason storyline. 
Both Sam Darnold and Daniel Jones departed in free agency during the 2025 offseason. The success both quarterbacks had with their new teams provided a stark contrast to McCarthy, who was sidelined for his entire rookie campaign. The former top-10 pick started 10 games in Year 2, struggling in a number of categories along the way. Poor play, along with various injuries, ensured the need for competition to be brought in this spring.
Head coach Kevin O’Connell and since-fired general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah both spoke on that subject after the season ended. Free agency and the trade market loom as avenues for the Vikings to make an addition. Ian Rapoport of NFL Network predicts (video link) a veteran will be sought out in the near future. The Athletic’s Dianna Russini also expects a move on that front (subscription required). A new deal for Carson Wentz – who took over QB1 duties prior to undergoing season-ending shoulder surgery – could be an option. Otherwise, several paths will at least be explored this spring.
As ESPN’s Kevin Seifert writes, “all bets are off” when it comes to how the Vikings will proceed. The firing of Adofo-Mensah came at an unexpected time, but many observers were not surprised a change was made in the wake of his QB setup not going to plan. Seifert’s colleague Jeremy Fowler notes Jones was a higher priority than Darnold last spring with respect to a Minnesota re-signing. The Colts wound up inking Jones to a one-year pact, but he is widely expected to remain in Indianapolis for 2026. Darnold, meanwhile, is one the books with Seattle through 2027.
McCarthy’s rookie deal has another two years remaining on it, with a potential fifth-year option to be decided on next spring. The Michigan product is certainly not a bust so early in his NFL career, but stabilizing Minnesota’s offense will depend in large part on much better play from under center. A short-term addition such as Aaron Rodgers or Joe Flacco could buy time for McCarthy to develop further. The trade market could involve other veterans such as Jacoby Brissett, who has one year remaining on his deal and is owed just $5.44MM for 2026.
It would be noteworthy to say the least if the Vikings were to consider drafting a new passer relatively early. The team does not have a full-time general manager at the moment, and Rob Brzezinski‘s replacement will not arrive until after the draft. A strong possibility exists for Minnesota’s next GM to inherit not only McCarthy but also another quarterback they had no role in acquiring. That would definitely make for an interesting dynamic between O’Connell and Adofo-Mensah’s eventual successor.
The Vikings are one of many teams currently projected to be over the cap for 2026. Several cost-shedding moves will be required as a result, and the amount of financial flexibility created will go a long way in determining which quarterbacks become affordable.
I hear that Kirk Cousins will soon be available 👀
I would bet on him retiring. When his name came up in trade discussions in-season last year, he said he would have to factor in his kids changing schools, and he would use his no-trade clause in his contract if necessary. I think he’s made enough money that he’s ready to just be a family guy now.
Welcome back, Captain Kirk.
Mac jones
I don’t see the Vikings giving up significant draft capital for someone like Mac Jones when a player like Kirk Cousins is going to be available for nothing more than a contract. They still hope McCarthy will be successful–but they need a good safety net.
Significant is the key word. Purdy’s missed a lot of games lately and Mac kept them in it this year when he played. Probably take a day two pick and more.
Why would Kirk go back lol
How does this article not mention Kirk Cousins?
Make the trade for Mac Jones and sign another veteran or trade for Jacoby Briskett also.
Didn’t Schefter just announce today that the Kirk is being let go eventually by Atlanta. And JJ has missed 25 games in his first 2 years
Look for it by March 12th if not earlier. March 13th is the key date.
Didn’t Schefter just announce that Kirk is being released by Atlanta? JJ has missed 25 games in his first 2 years and Kirk already knows KOC’S system
Geno Smith come on down
Geno is probably still safe in Vegas. He will not be counted on to start but they are going to probably keep him to back up Mendoza.