Throughout the offseason, the Minnesota Vikings have made adding to the quarterback position their biggest priority.
J.J. McCarthy spent the majority of the last two seasons injured, having started and played in just 10 of a possible 35 games. 2025 was the second season in Kevin O’Connell’s four seasons where they had to start at least three quarterbacks.
Kevin O’Connell doubles down on quarterback strategy
The discussion surrounding the signing of Kyler Murray has been focused on whether or not he’s a great fit. As O’Connell talked to Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero of NFL Network, it’s more about winning football games.
O’Connell is spot on. 27 wins combined when they had just a single starting quarterback the entire season showcases exactly why the position is so important. It’s why the Vikings have made having three capable starters a major priority.
Now, are they high-end options for the Vikings? That is up to interpretation. Murray is one of the more intriguing players in the class. He thrives with his arm talent and mobility, elevating the offense to a different level. His issue, just like that of McCarthy and Carson Wentz, has been missing time. If one or two of them miss games, O’Connell has a quarterback he can trust to start.
Will that strategy end up working? Hopefully, he doesn’t have to find out, but is prepared if it does.