The Minnesota Vikings appear set to move forward with J.J. McCarthy as their starting quarterback for the 2025 season, giving the former first-round pick a chance to prove himself. However, the team has been associated with several veteran quarterbacks this offseason, and new details have emerged about their strategy.
Initially, the Vikings attempted to re-sign Sam Darnold, but he opted to join the Seattle Seahawks, where he will be the unquestioned starter in 2025. After missing out on Darnold, Minnesota engaged in a bidding war for Daniel Jones but ultimately lost to the Indianapolis Colts.
Following these setbacks, rumors circulated that the Vikings were considering signing Aaron Rodgers. However, internal disagreements arose about whether to bring in the future Hall of Famer, as doing so would force McCarthy to compete against a seasoned veteran. Consequently, the organization decided against pursuing Rodgers.
Despite the availability of several experienced backup quarterbacks in free agency, Minnesota has been deliberate in its approach. There is a strategic reason for the delay in signing a veteran backup.
On the Inside Coverage podcast, Yahoo Sports’ senior NFL insider Charles Robinson discussed the Vikings’ decision-making process regarding when they might add a veteran quarterback.
“They’re not going to bring in a veteran backup until after the draft. Why? Because it affects their compensatory pick situation. They have a third- and fifth-round compensatory pick coming next year based on this offseason’s moves. If they sign another quarterback now, it will impact the comp-pick formula.”
Signing Rodgers, or even another veteran quarterback like Joe Flacco or Carson Wentz, could put Minnesota’s projected third- and fifth-round compensatory picks for the 2026 NFL Draft at risk. As a result, the team is expected to wait until at least the Monday following the 2025 NFL Draft before making a decision.
Regarding potential options, Robinson identified Wentz as a viable candidate. Having served as a backup for the Los Angeles Rams in 2023, Wentz has familiarity with Kevin O’Connell’s system and may be more open to a backup role compared to Flacco. This makes him a logical choice for the Vikings once they are ready to make a move.
Leave a Reply