The Minnesota Vikings are on the hunt for a new backup quarterback after a series of transactions left them in a tight spot.
With Sam Darnold signing with the Seattle Seahawks and Daniel Jones opting to join the Indianapolis Colts, the Vikings are now looking at veteran options to support young star J.J. McCarthy, who is expected to take the reins as the starting quarterback for the 2025 NFL season. Although there were discussions about bringing in Aaron Rodgers, that seems less likely now as Rodgers is making other plans.
Fox Sports’ NFL insider Jordan Schultz revealed that the Vikings have held discussions with veteran quarterback Ryan Tannehill. Tannehill, who has been out of the game since 2024, offers a wealth of experience that could prove invaluable for McCarthy as he steps up from the sidelines after missing his rookie year due to a knee injury.
Tannehill, aged 36, has a record of 34,881 passing yards, 216 touchdowns, and 115 interceptions over his eleven-year career, standing out as a consistent performer with a 64.3% completion rate. Despite his impressive statistics, Tannehill didn't play in 2024, which means he is eager to latch onto a new team. Reports indicate that he has not made a quick decision regarding his future, emphasizing that while talks are ongoing, an agreement is not imminent.
The Vikings, following their strong 14-3 finish last season under Darnold, are now faced with a critical decision regarding how to structure their quarterback lineup, especially with the team firmly committed to McCarthy, selected tenth overall in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Amidst growing speculation, Dianna Russini recently mentioned that the Vikings did engage with Rodgers last week but later decided to move on. This aligns with statements from NFL insiders suggesting that while there might still be a glimmer of hope for Tannehill's recruitment, the Vikings have decided against pursuing Rodgers further for now.
Jim Harbaugh, the former Michigan coach, once compared McCarthy to Tannehill, suggesting that the younger QB embodies a steady presence, akin to Tannehill’s style. This partnership, should it materialize, could provide Tannehill with a role akin to a mentor, allowing McCarthy to develop within a supportive environment.
Additionally, the Vikings have turned down multiple teams interested in acquiring McCarthy, reaffirming their commitment to the young quarterback. This clarity of direction is crucial as the Vikings navigate free agency and potential trades, with insiders anticipating that the team prefers a seasoned backup who can nurture, rather than overtake, McCarthy’s position as the starter.
The outlook for the Vikings' quarterback situation is further complicated by the slim pickings available in free agency. With other options like Russell Wilson unlikely to enter the fold and several previously viable candidates off the market, Tannehill’s candidacy may very well be their best shot at a quarterback with substantial experience.
Tannehill’s performance and leadership could not only elevate the team’s competitiveness but might also instill confidence in McCarthy’s journey as a starting QB, particularly as he steps into a role expected to demand a high level of performance. The Vikings are in a particularly advantageous position, considering they have one of the strongest rosters in the NFL, which makes the prospect of a deal with Tannehill even more appealing.
On the other hand, the possibility of a Tannehill signing remains fluid. Sources indicate that while the Vikings view this potential partnership favorably, the negotiations have not reached the point of signing on the dotted line. Therefore, fans might have to exercise patience as the team weighs its options.
With the NFL draft looming and a variety of potential quarterback signings, Minnesota’s decision in the coming weeks will shape the future of its offensive strategy. As they enter this reconfigured offseason, all eyes will be on how the Vikings navigate this pivotal moment in their franchise history.
Ultimately, the Vikings are trying to position themselves not just for the upcoming season, but for long-term success, balancing between developing a young pipeline while also reaping the benefits of experienced hands like Tannehill. There’s a lot riding on their next moves, which could either fortify their growing ownership in the NFC or send them scrambling back to the drawing board.
