Vikings are in desperation mode after Daniel Jones picks the Colts and the remaining options are very limited
The Minnesota Vikings had hoped that adding Daniel Jones to the practice squad last year would result in him becoming the backup quarterback to J.J. McCarthy. Unfortunately, that is not the case, as Jones has agreed to terms with the Indianapolis Colts on a one-year contract in free agency. Speculation was running rampant all day […]
The Minnesota Vikings had hoped that adding Daniel Jones to the practice squad last year would result in him becoming the backup quarterback to J.J. McCarthy. Unfortunately, that is not the case, as Jones has agreed to terms with the Indianapolis Colts on a one-year contract in free agency.
Speculation was running rampant all day about Jones deciding between the Vikings and the Colts and Jones chooses the latter. It makes sense, as Jones will have a more likely path to start in Indianapolis than in Minnesota. Instead, the Vikings will hopefully receive a compensatory selection for Jones choosing to leave, which is a huge benefit for almost no cost.
Vikings have limited options at backup quarterback
Missing out on the trio of Darnold, Mullens, and Jones is a combination of frustration and their own decision. That is exactly how free agency works: you win some and you lose some.
Jones was a perfect quarterback to pair with McCarthy due to his extensive starting experience and struggles as a top-10 pick. That knowledge could be incredibly valuable for him as he grows into his role as the starting quarterback.
With Jones off the board, who could be a target for the Vikings? Well, the pickings are slim, but the options are interesting. Here are some brief thoughts on six of them.
Marcus Mariota
Mariota was the second overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft as a dual-threat quarterback out of Oregon. His career as a starter didn't work out, but he's been a solid journeyman throughout his career. He was the backup last season for Jayden Daniels and the Washington Commanders made the NFC Championship Game.
Carson Wentz
This is an interesting one. Like Mariota, Wentz was also a second overall pick, but one year later in 2016. He's already played for five teams with the latest being the Indianapolis Colts. Wentz does have some experience in this system, having spent 2023 with the Los Angeles Rams.
Jacoby Brissett
Brissett has been the poster boy for journeymen quarterbacks. Like Wentz, Brissett has played for five teams, including starting for multiple teams, including the Indianapolis Colts, where he took over for Andrew Luck after his abrupt retirement. Being everywhere should help Brissett communicate little things with McCarthy.
Jameis Winston
There is no more volatile quarterback out there than Winston. The first overall pick in 2015, Winston is the only cornerback in NFL history to throw 30 touchdowns and 30 interceptions in the same season. That experience, plus his willingness to be aggressive, could be good for McCarthy.
Drew Lock
If it's a vibes thing, Drew Lock is great pick. On his play, the live arm and ability to create is a good thing. Plus, you have his experience with losing jobs with both the Denver Broncos and Seattle Seahawks, as he was a part of the Russell Wilson trade. Experience across the league in the way that Lock has is a good thing.
Gardner Minshew
This is arguably the best option. Why? He doesn't count toward the compensatory formula. Minshew has been a starter across the league, but he doesn't quite stick around in that role due to his play. However, he's a scrappy enough quarterback who can be a stabilizing force if McCarthy has to miss time.
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