The Minnesota Vikings enter the 2026 offseason facing significant uncertainty at the quarterback position following a disappointing season that ended without a playoff berth. The team has undergone major changes, including the dismissal of general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, signaling a shift in direction.
Meanwhile, former Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold has moved on to achieve remarkable success elsewhere, leading the Seattle Seahawks to victory in Super Bowl LX.
This development has intensified scrutiny on the Vikings’ handling of their quarterback situation. With Darnold thriving in Seattle and winning a championship, Minnesota’s decision to pivot toward younger options last year appears increasingly questionable in hindsight.
The franchise now must decide how to proceed with second-year quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who showed flashes of promise but struggled with consistency and availability.
A key debate centers on the level of competition the Vikings should introduce for McCarthy. Will they pursue a veteran capable of challenging for the starting role outright, or opt for a more supportive backup who allows the young player to continue developing without immediate pressure? The answer could define the team’s competitiveness in a strengthening NFC North division.
Prominent sports analyst Colin Cowherd weighed in on this topic during the February 13 episode of his FS1 program “The Herd.” He advocated strongly for bringing in experienced talent to stabilize the position.
“The Vikings are ready to win now with their personnel,“ Cowherd said. “I would go get Aaron Rodgers. Aaron, will you be my schoolmate? I think it works. First of all, J.J. McCarthy is going into Year 3. It is beyond durability issues. It’s little stuff, it’s big stuff. You can’t depend on it. You have Justin Jefferson, an elite left tackle.”
“Minnesota has good players and an excellent head coach. Minnesota has an elite defensive coordinator. By the way, Chicago is getting better. Green Bay is improving. The Lions solve their offensive coordinator issues. You could be in fourth place very quickly with another J.J. McCarthy injury. I’d go get Aaron.”
Cowherd’s comments highlight concerns about McCarthy’s injury history and the risk of falling behind divisional rivals if the team relies solely on the young quarterback. He emphasized the presence of star talents like wide receiver Justin Jefferson and a strong supporting cast, arguing that a proven veteran like Aaron Rodgers could maximize the current window of opportunity.
Adding to the conversation, former Vikings defensive end and Hall of Famer Jared Allen offered his perspective on McCarthy’s potential during an appearance on the February 11 edition of “Up & Adams.”
“I’ll tell you, my biggest question mark right now is can [McCarthy] stay healthy?“ Allen said. “He had some good games. They go on a four- or five-game win streak at the end. He started playing better football. But in the beginning, you see that fourth-quarter comeback in the Bears, and you’re like, ‘Okay, there’s something there.’’ Then they get stopped, and then same thing, they have a game where he starts bad and comes back. So I think he has some grit. I think he obviously has some good potential. But you’ve got to stay healthy. You’ve got to stay on the field in this league.”
Allen’s remarks reflect a balanced view: acknowledgment of McCarthy’s resilience and upside, tempered by realism about the importance of durability in the demanding NFL environment. He noted moments of promise, such as late-season improvements and gritty performances, but stressed that availability remains the critical factor.
The speculation around Aaron Rodgers persists as a prominent storyline this offseason. Recent reports indicate mutual interest between some Vikings personnel and the veteran quarterback, who previously spent time with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Rodgers could serve as a short-term bridge or competitor, potentially mentoring McCarthy while providing immediate production.
However, opinions vary on whether such a move is realistic or advisable. Some insiders suggest the Vikings remain open to exploring Rodgers if other options fall through, while others point to potential complications or alternative veteran targets. The team’s new leadership will need to weigh the benefits of experience against the long-term commitment to their drafted quarterback.
Ultimately, the Vikings’ quarterback decision will carry major implications for their roster construction and divisional standing. With talented pieces already in place and a competitive landscape heating up, the front office faces pressure to make a choice that balances immediate contention with sustainable growth.
The coming months will reveal whether Minnesota opts for a bold veteran addition or doubles down on McCarthy’s development. For now, names like Rodgers continue to dominate discussions, underscoring the high stakes involved in resolving this pivotal question.