Minnesota Vikings eye veteran quarterback competition for J.J. McCarthy
The Minnesota Vikings are prioritising the addition of an experienced quarterback to challenge J.J. McCarthy following the youngster’s difficult second season in the NFL.
Discussions held during the NFL Combine in Indianapolis suggest the franchise remains committed to their 2024 first-round pick despite his recent struggles.
McCarthy missed his rookie year through injury and faced significant challenges during an injury-riddled 2025 campaign.
Veteran support sought for McCarthy
The Vikings hierarchy are reportedly unwilling to simply hand the starting role to the former Michigan standout for the 2026 season.
Should established passers such as Geno Smith or Kyler Murray become available via release, Minnesota is expected to pursue a short-term deal.
The NFC North club views a low-cost, one-year contract for a veteran as the ideal scenario to foster competition.
This strategy aims to refocus McCarthy on his technical development while securing a viable starter if his form does not improve.
Bringing in a proven commodity is seen as a necessary step to harness the talent the organisation identified when drafting him.
Rodgers and Cousins links re-emerge
If a younger veteran cannot be secured, the Vikings may pivot toward the league’s most senior signal-callers.
Former Viking Kirk Cousins, Joe Flacco and Aaron Rodgers have all been identified as potential targets.
Minnesota had previously discussed approaching Rodgers last offseason before deciding against the move.
The front office could also explore trade options for unproven backups to bolster squad depth.
Names such as Tanner McKee, Davis Mills or Anthony Richardson Sr have been mooted as potential trade targets.
However, acquiring a younger backup is unlikely to provide the mentorship or immediate competition required to salvage McCarthy’s long-term trajectory.
The free agency negotiation window opens on 9 March, with the Vikings expected to be active in the quarterback market.