The Minnesota Vikings are in search of a quarterback after parting ways with three signal-callers at the start of the new NFL year.
With Sam Darnold, Daniel Jones, and Nick Mullens moving on to the Seattle Seahawks, Indianapolis Colts, and Jacksonville Jaguars, respectively, J.J. McCarthy is now the clear frontrunner to start in Week 1. However, after missing his rookie season due to injury, the 22-year-old quarterback needs a reliable veteran backup. Currently, Brett Rypien is the only other quarterback under contract.
Several options remain in free agency, and according to Darren Wolfson of KSTP, some within the Vikings organization have long admired one particular player: Marcus Mariota.
Marcus Mariota’s Career and Fit With the Vikings
Mariota, the second overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, spent his first four and a half seasons as the starting quarterback for the Tennessee Titans. Over the past five years, he has primarily served as a backup for the Las Vegas Raiders, Philadelphia Eagles, and Washington Commanders, while also starting 13 games for the Atlanta Falcons in 2022.
In his career, Mariota has started 74 games, accumulating over 16,000 passing yards, 97 touchdowns, and 55 interceptions. Last season in Washington, he played in three games, throwing for 364 yards, four touchdowns, and no interceptions while completing 77.3% of his passes (34-of-44).
At 31 years old, Mariota has earned approximately $75.5 million over his career. Spotrac estimates his market value at around $4.2 million for a one-year contract.
Why Mariota Makes Sense for Minnesota
While not a game-changing quarterback, Mariota fits the profile of what the Vikings need behind McCarthy. As an experienced veteran, he can provide guidance to the young quarterback while being capable of stepping in if needed. At the same time, he isn’t so dominant that he would pose a threat to McCarthy’s starting job should the young QB struggle.
Head coach Kevin O’Connell demonstrated last season that he can keep the team competitive with quarterbacks like Mullens and Josh Dobbs. If necessary, the Vikings should be able to win with Mariota in a similar role.
Financially, Mariota’s projected $4 million salary makes him an affordable option, allowing Minnesota to maintain flexibility while keeping McCarthy on a rookie contract through at least 2027, with a possible team option for 2028. With the Vikings investing heavily in their offensive and defensive lines, saving money at the quarterback position could help them address expected departures in the secondary this offseason.
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