Over the past decade, the Minnesota Vikings have experienced a series of quarterback changes, but perhaps none as unpredictable as the journey that began with Teddy Bridgewater’s selection in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft. By 2016, Bridgewater looked poised to take the next step in his development, impressing during the preseason. However, a devastating knee injury in practice abruptly ended his season and nearly his career, requiring quick intervention from athletic trainer Eric Sugarman to save his leg.
With Bridgewater sidelined just before the regular season, the Vikings traded a first-round pick to the Eagles for Sam Bradford, who was expected to lead a playoff-ready team. Bradford started strong but was quickly sidelined by injuries, leading to Case Keenum stepping in as the starting quarterback.
Keenum, a former University of Houston standout and NCAA record-holder in passing stats, had a rough 2016, finishing with a 4-5 record in nine starts as the Vikings missed the playoffs. However, in 2017, Keenum rose to the occasion. He led the team with 3,547 passing yards, 22 touchdowns, and only seven interceptions in 14 starts — the best season of his career. That season is most remembered for the “Minneapolis Miracle,” where Keenum threw the iconic game-winning touchdown to Stefon Diggs against the Saints.
Despite the magical moment, the Vikings fell short the following week in the NFC Championship game against the Eagles. The loss led to the team signing Kirk Cousins and hiring John DeFilippo as offensive coordinator. Keenum moved on, signing a starting contract with Denver in 2018, and has since served as a backup for several teams.
In 2025, Keenum signed a one-year deal worth up to $3 million with the Chicago Bears. After two seasons with the Houston Texans, including a stint replacing an injured C.J. Stroud in 2023, Keenum brings his veteran presence to Chicago, where he’ll mentor top draft pick Caleb Williams. Despite limited action last year due to a foot injury, Keenum’s experience is seen as valuable for developing young quarterbacks.
Now on his sixth NFL team since leaving Minnesota, Keenum has built a reputation as a trusted mentor, having previously worked with Baker Mayfield, Josh Allen, and C.J. Stroud. Entering the 2025 season, he may face off against his former team, bringing his journey full circle. With career earnings approaching $60 million, Keenum’s NFL story remains one of resilience, leadership, and unexpected impact.
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