Vikings eye proven veteran firepower to challenge J.J. McCarthy, eyeing a massive QB splash and potential mentorship from unlikely stars.
The Minnesota Vikings (9-8) have not added a free agency quarterback, but we can reasonably assume it is coming. This realization comes after remarks made by Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell all but admitted the team will be big game hunting on the free agent quarterback front this offseason.
Hello, quarterback controversy.
We don't know who that quarterback will be, but we do have a good idea it could be a player even more proven than 2025 backup quarterback Carson Wentz.
The Vikings are past the point of catering to their starter, J.J. McCarthy. Minnesota needs a backup plan, or a new starter McCarthy can learn from, that can make a real impact if called upon in 2026.
Leo Wood of "DAZN" discussed the potential of a big splash in the upcoming offseason. Among the free agents he discussed the Vikings could target is a familiar one: former rival quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
Wood gave his thoughts on the potential move.
"This season, Rodgers took the Pittsburgh Steelers to the playoffs with a 10-7 record, and despite being flattened by an unstoppable Houston Texans defense in the Wild Card round, he can look back on this season with pride.
At 42, he threw for 3,322 yards, 24 touchdowns and only seven interceptions, proving he still has what it takes to lead an offense.
Despite being the most expensive of the options listed, he's by far the most talented, has the best resume, and would not only mentor McCarthy but also elevate the rest of the Vikings' offense to new heights."
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Carson Wentz (11) and Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts (1) react after the game at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-Imagn ImagesWood listed a few other options that the Vikings could target. Among them, Malik Willis, Marcus Mariota and Joe Flacco. All of the three options could contribute positively, but likely would start the season as backups rather than take McCarthy's spot.
Wood made his prediction for who the team could sign.
"McCarthy will most likely be Minnesota's starting quarterback in Week 1 of next season, with an older player such as Joe Flacco or Marcus Mariota backing him up.
But if McCarthy doesn't grasp the opportunity with both hands and falters again down the stretch, not only will he lose his handle on the starting job, but his reputation will be severely dented for years to come."
McCarthy may well be given the opportunity to take hold of the starting job permanently, but the Vikings will need to see proof of progress in 2026. They'll look at add another quarterback to make sure the position is up to par next season.