Kevin O’Connell Confirms Vikings Will Add Another QB
Speaking to the media on Monday, April 21, O’Connell acknowledged the ongoing efforts to round out the quarterback group.
“We’ve been patient and really evaluated a lot of different ways we could potentially do that,” O’Connell said via ESPN’s Kevin Seifert. “There’s potential trades and free agency and still the draft… we’ll complete that room and still have a competitive situation in there, however you look at it.”
O’Connell emphasized the importance of selecting the right fit, noting that McCarthy and Rypien are already participating in offseason workouts. However, the Vikings want to add someone with real game experience—not just a developmental project.
McCarthy’s Injury History Raises Stakes for a Reliable Backup
The urgency to add a seasoned quarterback stems in large part from McCarthy’s health history. The 2024 first-round pick missed his entire rookie season due to a knee injury sustained in training camp, which required two surgeries. Although the team remains committed to his future, there is understandable caution about putting all their eggs in one basket.
Rypien provides some stability, but his ceiling as a backup is limited. Ideally, the Vikings want someone who can both mentor McCarthy and take meaningful snaps if needed.
Vikings Likely to Carry Four QBs into Training Camp
Minnesota, like most NFL teams, is expected to enter training camp with four quarterbacks. While the fourth is typically a practice squad arm or undrafted rookie, the third spot is far more critical. That player needs to be capable of stepping into a starting role on short notice.
The market is narrowing, but several notable options remain—either on the open market or via trade.
Aaron Rodgers Rumors Still Linger, but Fit Is Questionable
One headline-grabbing name linked to Minnesota earlier this offseason was Aaron Rodgers. The veteran quarterback is reportedly still a free agent after being released from the Jets following a frustrating and injury-shortened tenure.
While Rodgers would bring a legendary resume, the fit in Minnesota is awkward. League insiders suggest Rodgers is still pursuing a starting job, and the Vikings may be reluctant to add the kind of star power that could undermine McCarthy’s development. The optics of having a four-time MVP breathing down his neck could stifle the young QB’s confidence.
Kirk Cousins Trade Talk Gains Momentum
Perhaps the most intriguing development is the resurfacing of Kirk Cousins as a potential solution. Now with the Atlanta Falcons, Cousins reportedly drew interest from both the Vikings and the Pittsburgh Steelers, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN.
However, the cost is a major sticking point. Atlanta is asking any acquiring team to take on $20 million of the $37.5 million guaranteed still owed to Cousins, a number no team has been willing to pay thus far. There’s speculation that either Minnesota or Pittsburgh might go as high as $10 million, but that’s still a significant ask.
Complicating matters is Cousins’ no-trade clause, which gives him control over his destination. While a return to Minnesota might appeal to him personally—given his familiarity and prior success—he would likely want a clear path to starting, which may not exist with McCarthy entrenched as the face of the future.
Conclusion: All Options on the Table as Draft Approaches
As it stands, the Vikings are navigating a delicate quarterback situation. They are committed to developing J.J. McCarthy, but his injury history and inexperience necessitate the presence of a veteran who can step in if needed. Whether that solution comes through a Rodgers-type free agent, a Cousins reunion via trade, or an unexpected draft-day deal, the team knows it must act soon.
The most likely scenario? The Vikings could bring in a mid-tier veteran who can accept a backup role but still start games if required. That could include lesser-known free agents or trade candidates currently flying under the radar.
With the NFL Draft just days away, don’t be surprised if Minnesota’s next big quarterback move comes during—or even before—draft weekend.
Would you like a list of available veteran quarterbacks the Vikings could target or a comparison of their fit vs. cost?
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