The Minnesota Vikings are enjoying an impressive 13-2 record this season and are determined to keep their NFC North title hopes alive with a crucial win against the Green Bay Packers on Sunday. Heading into the season, few could have predicted the Vikings would emerge as an elite football team, particularly with Sam Darnold under center. His strong performance has exceeded expectations, but it also leaves the franchise with critical decisions to make during the upcoming offseason.
The Vikings’ front office will need to decide whether to let Darnold walk, re-sign him, or place the franchise tag on him. If Darnold departs, there is speculation that J.J. McCarthy, currently in the early stages of his NFL career, could be the Vikings’ starting quarterback in 2025. However, this scenario comes with its own challenges. Should Minnesota determine that McCarthy isn’t ready to take on the starting role by then, they will need to explore alternative options. One intriguing possibility is a reunion with former Viking and current Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins.
The Kirk Cousins Scenario
Cousins, once the face of the Vikings franchise, was recently benched by the Falcons in favor of rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. Despite having three years left on his contract, reports suggest the Falcons might release him in the offseason. This development has sparked speculation that Cousins could find his way back to Minnesota.
NFL analyst Jori Epstein from Yahoo Sports weighed in on the matter, stating:
“Interpersonal dynamics in Minnesota may complicate a reunion so soon after head coach Kevin O’Connell and general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah moved on from Cousins. But the league is not missing the irony of the potential football fit a reunion would bring, as Darnold will likely command more than the Vikings want to pay, and injured rookie J.J. McCarthy’s rehabilitation timeline will leave uncertainty.”
While Cousins could provide a familiar and experienced option for Minnesota, his return might only make sense if Darnold leaves and McCarthy is deemed unready to start. Even then, the Vikings could consider other alternatives if Cousins doesn’t rejoin the team.
Could Daniel Jones Be the Answer?
Another potential option for the Vikings is former New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones, who is currently on Minnesota’s practice squad. Although Jones has been relegated to a backup role and has been watching games from the sidelines, he could emerge as a dark horse candidate for the starting job.
For Jones, stepping into a starting role with the Vikings could offer a career resurgence. His physical tools and prior experience as a starter might allow him to thrive in Minnesota’s offensive system. However, the Vikings could also choose to go in a different direction, particularly if Cousins is brought back or if they explore the trade or free-agent markets for a younger quarterback.
What Lies Ahead for Minnesota?
The Vikings face a pivotal offseason with several critical decisions regarding their quarterback position. If Sam Darnold walks, the team will have to weigh their trust in J.J. McCarthy’s readiness against bringing in a seasoned veteran like Cousins or taking a chance on someone like Daniel Jones.
Furthermore, the Vikings may consider other quarterback options as teams across the league evaluate their own rosters and part ways with established players. Regardless of the path they choose, Minnesota’s quarterback situation will undoubtedly be one of the most intriguing storylines of the offseason, as they aim to build on this season’s success and position themselves as perennial contenders in the NFC.
“Interpersonal Dynamics In Minnesota May Complicate a Reunion”: NFL Writer Thinks Minnesota Vikings Could Make Stunning Quarterback Move For 2025 NFL Season#SKOL
