The Minnesota Vikings are looking for a new backup quarterback. The team is excited about J.J. McCarthy. He is their young starting quarterback. However, McCarthy is still unproven and recovering from a serious knee injury. The Vikings want to make sure he has strong support this season. Continue reading to learn more about how Vikings proposal reunites McCarthy.
The Need for a Backup
The Vikings aim to sign a veteran quarterback to back up McCarthy. This decision is smart, especially since McCarthy needs help as he develops. Currently, several quarterbacks are available on the market. This includes Aaron Rodgers and Russell Wilson.
Rodgers wants to be a starter. This may not help McCarthy grow. Wilson’s ability to contribute to the team is uncertain at this stage in his career. As the Vikings assess their options, they may also consider making trades.
Kirk Cousins Trade Proposal
One interesting option is Kirk Cousins. He is the former Vikings quarterback. Cousins now plays for the Atlanta Falcons. However, he is available for trade. Also, Jason Burgos from Sportsnaut proposed a trade. This would bring Cousins back to Minnesota.
Burgos noted that some might think it is strange for Cousins to return. The Vikings let him go because they did not want to match the contract the Falcons offered. Unlike Rodgers, Cousins would be open to being a backup. This could make a return more appealing. However, Cousins might still want to compete for a starting spot. If he desires to win the starting position, Minnesota might not be the best fit for him.
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General Manager’s Confidence in McCarthy
General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah expressed confidence in J.J. McCarthy. This is as the Vikings’ starting quarterback. He believes McCarthy can succeed in that role. Also, he stated that is the outcome they want and the outcome that they are headed towards.
Adofo-Mensah also mentioned that McCarthy has exceeded expectations. This is during the draft process and offseason workouts. The general manager wants to build a team that supports McCarthy while remaining competitive in games.
McCarthy’s Injury and Performance
The Vikings selected McCarthy 10th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. Unfortunately, he suffered a right meniscus tear during the preseason. This injury placed him on injured severely for the entire season. Thus, Sam Darnold started every game during the regular season and playoffs.
Darnold and backup quarterback Daniel Jones have both signed with new teams this offseason. Also, Darnold went to the Seattle Seahawks, while Jones signed with the Indianapolis Colts. With their departures, McCarthy and Brett Rypien are now the only quarterbacks on the roster.
Moving On from Aaron Rodgers
The Vikings are no longer pursuing Aaron Rodgers for their roster. Adofo-Mensah confirmed they have moved on. However, he did not completely rule out Rodgers joining the team in the future. Thus, NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported that the Vikings were not actively seeking the 41-year-old quarterback. They also turned down trade offers for McCarthy.
Adofo-Mensah also mentioned that a player like Rodgers is always going to be in these conversations. However, he stressed the team’s current focus is on developing McCarthy. Also, it is on improving the quarterback room.
Plans for the Future
The Vikings continue to explore different ways to upgrade their quarterback position. Adofo-Mensah has made it clear that the team is not standing still. Minnesota finished with a strong record of 14-3 last season. However, he faced disappointment when they lost to the Los Angeles Rams in the wild-card round. As the Vikings prepare for the upcoming season, they hold four picks in the 2025 NFL Draft. This includes the 24th overall pick. This gives them opportunities to add depth and talent to their roster.
