Get ready for some serious quarterback drama! The Minnesota Vikings are facing a crucial decision that could shake up their 2026 season. With their faith in J.J. McCarthy, the 2024 first-round pick, the team has let go of experienced quarterbacks Sam Darnold and Daniel Jones. But here's where it gets interesting: they might be considering some serious competition for McCarthy's starting role.
According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, the Vikings could be following the Indianapolis Colts' lead from the 2025 offseason. This means bringing in a veteran or a player looking to prove themselves, just like how the Colts signed Daniel Jones to challenge Anthony Richardson, the 2023 draft's 4th overall pick. Jones, who had a rough time with the Giants, found success in Indiana and is now in line for a big contract extension or at least a hefty franchise tag in 2026.
Fowler suggests that the Vikings could go after Jones if the Colts don't re-sign him. He also mentions Mac Jones from the 49ers and Davis Mills from the Texans as potential targets. Both players were once seen as franchise quarterbacks, but their recent performances have been mixed. However, they've shown enough to be considered trade targets, especially with their relief efforts this season.
Davis Mills, at 27, has stepped up during C.J. Stroud's absence due to a concussion, leading the Texans to a 3-0 record with 5 touchdowns and just 1 interception. Mac Jones, on the other hand, has a completion percentage of nearly 69.6%, the 4th highest in the league, and a quarterback rating of 97.4. He's shown glimpses of the player who finished second in Offensive Rookie of the Year voting in 2021.
But the Vikings might also consider players like Kyler Murray, who might have played his last game for the Cardinals, or even Anthony Richardson again. Fowler notes that Minnesota head coach Kevin O'Connell has respect for Richardson, who has expressed interest in playing under an offensive-minded coach like Sean McVay or someone from his coaching tree.
For a more veteran option, Aaron Rodgers and Joe Flacco could be in the mix. The Vikings had talks with Flacco this offseason, and Rodgers made it known that Minnesota was his preferred destination. A reunion with Carson Wentz, who had some strong performances earlier this year, is also a possibility, according to Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports.
Wentz, who turns 32 next month, had a shoulder injury that ended his season prematurely, but his surgery went well, and he could return as a backup or even as competition for McCarthy.
McCarthy, unfortunately, has had a tough rookie campaign, missing all of last season due to injury and struggling with health issues this year. He's missed 5 games due to an ankle sprain and is currently sidelined with a concussion. His performance has been below par, completing only 54.1% of his passes with 10 interceptions and 6 touchdowns, resulting in a 2-4 record.
Elite wide receiver Justin Jefferson, a two-time First Team All-Pro, has also had a career-low season in terms of yards per game and catch percentage due to McCarthy's struggles. However, Jefferson has shown support for his young quarterback, saying, "It's early... He's learning just like everyone else has to as a rookie. I feel like he's going to bounce back in a different way than everyone expects."
Veteran running back Aaron Jones echoed this sentiment, adding, "The ones who counted you out will have to recount."
With McCarthy out, undrafted rookie Max Brosmer will get his first start(s). A strong performance could put him in the running for an extended role in 2026.
So, who will the Vikings choose to challenge McCarthy? Will they go for a proven veteran or take a chance on a player looking for redemption? And what does this mean for McCarthy's future with the team? Let's discuss in the comments! Are you team veteran or team redemption project?
