Plenty of the Minnesota Vikings heavy lifting in free agency has already been done. They’ve revamped the offensive line and heavily invested in the defensive trenches too. They also brought back their best DB talent and added more depth in the secondary and at linebacker. Oh, and don’t forget about the trade they swung for another extremely talented running back.

In other words, this MN Vikings team looks a lot different than the one we saw lose vs the LA Rams in the Wild Card round of the 2024 NFL Playoffs. One glaring omission, however, remains in the QB room. After Sam Darnold got the bag (kind of) in Seattle, Kevin O’Connell and his group of QB whisperers turned their focus to Daniel Jones back.

But after a few months inside the Vikings organization, the former No. 6 overall draft pick didn’t like his QB competition chances vs JJ McCarthy this summer, so he bailed for an easier opportunity to win the starting job in Indianapolis vs Anthony Richardson.

Obviously, the Minnesota Vikings’ current QB conversation is being dominated by all the Aaron Rodgers chatter swirling lately, chatter that continued through the weekend. But as expected, KOC and the Vikings front office continue to prepare for life with multiple veteran quarterbacks, including players not nicknamed A-Rodg.

Joe Flacco to the Minnesota Vikings?

We know one thing for sure. Brett Rypien is not going to be QB2 in Minnesota next season. Beyond that, and the Rodgers rumors, reports on which veteran quarterbacks the Vikings value most out of those remaining have been mostly neon-existent.

That was until today, when respected NFL insider Albert Breer (Sports Illustrated) reported in his Monday Morning Quarterback column that the MN Vikings have been in contact with the other 40-year-old Super Bowl winner still on the market, Joe Flacco.

“Joe Flacco visited the Giants last week—which was a way, I think, for the team to check him out, and for Flacco to get his name back in circulation. Yes, he’s 40. But as a one-year solution, at a way cheaper rate than Cousins or Rodgers, I think the guy can still play. And the Browns, Steelers and Vikings think enough of him still to have checked on him.”

Sports Illustrated

After three years with the New York Jets, in which Joe Flacco operated as a backup mentor for (yet another) Jets first round bust, the Super Bowl XLVII MVP looked like he’d be forced into retirement. Then, Deshaun Watson went down in Cleveland and Flacco was pulled off the couch by former Vikings OC Kevin Stefanski.

The 17-year NFL vet responded by leading the Browns to 11 wins and a playoff appearance. Joe Flacco’s surprise emergency performance that season earned him 2023 Comeback Player of the Year, after 1600 passing yards, 13 TDs and 8 INTs in five games to finish the season.

The 2023 CPOY is headed to Indy 👏@JoeFlacco | @Colts pic.twitter.com/4GcRblH0Vk

— NFL (@NFL) March 13, 2024

Then in 2024, Flacco left the Browns’ clown show and joined something pretty similar with the Indianapolis Colts. After Anthony Richardson literally asked to be benched, Flacco benefited with another opportunity as a starter.

Related: Vikings Hosting Former Top 3 Draft Pick for Free Agency Visit

What does Joe Flacco have left in the tank?

As Breer points out, while Flacco is 40, there would be no questions as to whether or not he could take take over as Minnesota Vikings QB1 in a pinch. In his 8 appearances (6 starts) with the Colts last season, Flacco posted a 65.3% completion rate with 12 touchdowns and 7 interceptions.

If the Vikings were to sign Flacco, it shouldn’t cost much. He made just $5 million in Indianapolis last season. That’s half of what Darnold signed for as the Vikings’ bridge option in 2024. Flacco brings 196 games of NFL experience to the table, along with 4,166 career completions for 54,697 yards, 257 touchdowns and 162 interceptions. that’s a lot of QB wisdom for a curious young JJ McCarthy to soak in.

There isn’t a lot of backup QB talent remaining on the market, especially if Kevin O’Connell is in search for a safer investment than someone like Jameis Winston or Gardner Minshew, which he clearly is.

Signing Flacco would solidify MN Vikings QB plan

Short of signing Aaron Rodgers, virtually any veteran QB addition at this point in free agency, will cement Minnesota’s plans to move forward with J.J. McCarthy as their starter. This is the plan Kwesi Adofo-Mensah has been building toward since taking over the front office in 2022.

McCarthy has been a winner in every single stop he has made. He left Michigan with 40 starts and a National Championship under his belt. His 72.3% completion rate as a junior led the Big Ten. He brings virtually everything Kevin O’Connell could want to the table.

Related: Minnesota Vikings Free Agency Signings – 2025

This will be the second year of McCarthy’s rookie contract. He effectively can be kept in a cost-controlled manner for three years after this one. If the Vikings want to continue utilizing ample amounts of cap space to build around him, this is the way.

More must-reads:

• Aaron Rodgers Really is Waiting for the Vikings
• Report: Minnesota Vikings Interested in Former OPOY
• Reports: Vikings Seriously Considering Aaron Rodgers at QB

The Aaron Rodgers to Minnesota Vikings rumors that most thought would have been long gone by now, are still very much alive. In fact, chatter connecting the Vikings to their former 4X MVP rival has only grown louder as the week has gone on.

Minnesota Vikings + Aaron Rodgers rumors still churning

On Friday, the Rodgers + Vikings steam machine is being captained by NFL insider Dianna Russini (The Athletic), who dropped a new episode of the “Scoop City” podcast which she co-hosts with former NFL QB Chase Daniel. It was there that the duo talked at length about the latest rumblings Russini is hearing regarding Aaron Rodgers’ future.

Her focus, however, wasn’t just on what Aaron Rodgers is looking for. Instead, she dove into some of the conversations that are happening inside TCO Performance Center, regarding their immediate and future plans at quarterback, and whether or not they include A-Rodg.

Woah! This could be why the @Vikings are “seriously considering” bringing in Aaron Rodgers.@DMRussini breaks it down but it sounds like she got the sense that J.J. McCarthy may actually not be ahead of schedule injury wise 👀

“Kevin O'Connell told me on the red carpet at the… pic.twitter.com/AzC6gUFQsF

— The Purple Persuasion (@TPPSkol) March 14, 2025

“So, the Giants are waiting, the Pittsburgh Steelers are waiting. And then, while all of this is happening, the Minnesota Vikings are having meetings and conversations about what [adding Rodgers] would look like, because they’ve got a lot of hurdles here. This is not an easy decision at all, if you’re the Minnesota Vikings.”

“[The Vikings] did not want to pay [Sam Darnold] the kind of money that we saw him get with the Colts, thinking ‘okay, now we got to go get a veteran quarterback’. Who’s out there? Well, Aaron Rodgers is out there. But Aaron Rodgers is probably going to cost some, Aaron Rodgers is a future Hall of Fame quarterback. And there are many people with the Minnesota Vikings as well as the Pittsburgh Steelers and the New York Giants of course who still think he can play at a really high level. So with that, what do you do?”

Dianna Russini – Scoop City Podcast

Russini’s report is similar to what has come out recently from other trusted NFL insiders, like Albert Breer (SI), who reported on Thursday that the MN Vikings were discussing a possible contract offer for Aaron Rodgers, but had yet to offer it.

Related: Minnesota Vikings Hosting Young WR on Free Agency Visit

On the other side of the rumors, it’s being widely reported (or at least widely assumed by these same insiders) that Aaron Rodgers’ preferred landing spot is Minnesota. That obviously makes a ton of sense, being the Vikings have the most to offer, in terms of talent around him and Super Bowl hopes for 2025.

Aaron Rodgers waiting for the MN Vikings

But also because, according to multiple reports, Rodgers has yet to seriously engage in contract talks with the Steelers or Giants, who have both made it very clear they want him as their starting quarterback in 2025.

This afternoon, Russini is doubling and tripling down on her podcast report from the morning. The Minnesota Vikings, she tweets, are indeed deciding whether or not to offer Rodgers, though they have not made a final decision.

She also confirmed in the same post, that yes, Rodgers is “waiting to hear from Minnesota” and that “the Vikings are having discussions about what they want to do at quarterback and if they want Rodgers”. Shortly after this tweet, she went on a local Pittsburgh radio station where she apparently said that her “gut feeling” is Aaron Rodgers ends up in Minnesota.

Here’s what you need to know.

The Vikings are having discussions about what they want to do at quarterback and if they want Rodgers.

Rodgers is giving them time and waiting to hear from Minnesota.

The Vikings have yet to make a decision.

We all wait. https://t.co/leT2E9aWqD

— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) March 14, 2025

The Athletic' Dianna Russini just said on 93.7 Fan that her gut instinct is Aaron Rodgers will end up with the Vikings. #Steelers #NFL

— Steelers Depot 7⃣ (@Steelersdepot) March 14, 2025

Pushback on latest round of Vikings + Rodgers steam

Now, there are plenty of counter reports out there from equally plugged-in NFL insiders, who are far from as sold on Aaron Rodgers to the MN Vikings as Russini is. On Friday, Tom Pelissero (NFL Network) called the latest round of Rodgers + Vikings steam “overstated”.

Related: Vikings Signing Very Familiar Free Agent Linebacker

While Tom goes on to admit that Kevin O’Connell and Aaron Rodgers are friends and do talk, he stands in the camp that many NFL fans and pundits do today. That while the Minnesota Vikings have yet to rule out the possibility of adding Aaron Rodgers, there is no sign that they are on the verge of offering a contract, at this point.

"I would not say at this point Rich, I cannot definitively tell you that they're out, but I would also not say they're in. The idea that they're negotiating with Aaron Rodgers or actively trying to bring him in is…overstated. Lets put it that way."pic.twitter.com/Z1m8UzYhVd

— The Purple Persuasion (@TPPSkol) March 14, 2025

So… in other words, stay tuned.

More must-reads:

• Minnesota Vikings in Contact with Another Veteran QB
• Report: Minnesota Vikings Interested in Former OPOY
• Reports: Vikings Seriously Considering Aaron Rodgers at QB

No, this article is not about Aaron Rodgers, who the Minnesota Vikings are reportedly considering as a one-and-done Super Bowl run bridge option for JJ McCarthy in 2025. This certainly does pertain to that possible signing, however.

A large chunk of Sam Darnold’s success as quarterback of the MN Vikings in 2024 can be attributed to the coaching chops of Kevin O’Connell and the rest of the team’s offensive coaching staff, especially QB coach Josh McCown and now departed assistant QB coach, Grant Udinski.

Related: Minnesota Vikings Free Agency Signings – 2025

From a coaching standpoint, there may be no better spot in the entire NFL than in Minnesota. And that may have been more true last season, than it will be in 2025, now that Udinski is in Jacksonville trying to propel the career of Trevor Lawrence, who was once seen as the most non-miss QB prospect since Andrew Luck.

It’s difficult to find a set of offensive skill player talent, like what the Minnesota Vikings had on roster last season, which they’re all now scheduled to be back in 2025. But wait, there’s also a good possibility KOC’s offense will have even more fire power this year, than it did last year.

Minnesota Vikings interested in Cooper Kupp

After one year of trusting Jalen Nailor to perform their WR3 duties, the Vikings are looking for an upgrade. And, according to Dianna Russini (The Athletic) on Gojo and Golic (Mike Golic Jr and Sr), Minnesota’s top option appears to be one of the best skill position talents left on the free agency big board, former All-Pro and Offensive Player of the Year, Cooper Kupp.

“There are a lot of teams interested in [Cooper Kupp]. The price range, it’s a good number. He’s looking to get paid around $14-$15 million…I think Seattle’s got their eye on him. I think the Jags are watching this as well, I think the Minnesota Vikings [are interested].

“I think the Green Bay Packers are poking around. I like looking at teams that are probably trying to make a run. I also know Tom Brady loves Cooper Kupp. I’m interested to see if the Raiders are going to make a push here.”

Dianna Russini – Gojo & Golic

Cooper Kupp, 31, won OPOY with the LA Rams in 2021 with 145 receptions, 1,957 yards and 16 touchdowns. The Rams’ offensive coordinator that season, which ended in a Super Bowl victory, was now Minnesota Vikings head coach, Kevin O’Connell.

What does Cooper Kupp still bring to the table?

Kupp has played 8 years in the NFL, after being drafted in the 3rd round by the Rams in 2017. He’s totalled 634 receptions, 7,776 yards and 57 touchdowns in 104 career games (89 starts). While he hasn’t been the same guy since his OPOY season, Kupp has still recorded at least 59 receptions and 700+ yards in each of the last three seasons, despite not playing in more than 12 games.

Cooper Kupp Highlights from just 12 games last season, shall we?

710yds, 6TDs: 12 Games.

The other drop is in the playoffs where he had 90yds.

You will see in this video that Kupp is open a ton. He has great route running but even when theres little separation, he catches it. pic.twitter.com/AIlWGfdEFE

— DrakeMuse (@DrakeMayeTD) March 12, 2025

MN Vikings are an incredible situation for next QB

The next quarterback of the MN Vikings will have the same weapons system that Darnold had at his disposal in 2024, though. An arsenal that is highlighted by the league’s best (and highest paid) wide receiver, Justin Jefferson.

But Jefferson is only the tip of the iceberg. Minnesota also employs the best WR2 in the NFL, Jordan Addison. And let’s not forget about one of the league’s best pass-catching tight ends, TJ Hockenson, plus newly re-signed running back, Aaron Jones.

Related: Minnesota Vikings Have Already Won NFL Free Agency

Whether it’s JJ McCarthy, Aaron Rodgers or someone else, the Vikings’ next quarterback will also be protected by what looks like one of the best offensive lines in the NFL, on paper. That’s especially true after this week’s signings of former Colts, (C) Ryan Kelly and (G) Will Fries. Now, will that offense also employ Cooper Kupp as its WR3? We’ll find out soon enough.

More must-reads:

• Minnesota Vikings in Contact with Another Veteran QB
• Aaron Rodgers Really is Waiting for the Vikings
• Reports: Vikings Seriously Considering Aaron Rodgers at QB

We thought the Minnesota Vikings had made their quarterback decision late last week, when news broke that the Seattle Seahawks were trading Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders, due to their interest in signing 2024 Pro Bowler Sam Darnold.

At that point, there were some light whispers linking the Vikings to infamous former Green Bay Packers superstar and future 1st ballot Hall of Famer, Aaron Rodgers. Still, the likelihood of our former rival landing in purple felt far-fetched. Other teams were sprouting up with interest in Rodgers and Minnesota appeared focused on retaining Daniel Jones.

Would the MN Vikings consider Rodgers more seriously, if they lost out on Jones? Maybe… but most reports focused on Minnesota’s love of 2024 No. 10 overall pick, JJ McCarthy. The belief among insiders was that, while the Vikings weren’t willing to completely rule anything out — Rodgers included — that they were comfortable with the redshirt rookie at QB1.

Aaron Rodgers + Minnesota Vikings rumors gaining steam…

But that narrative has been shifting in the past 24 hours. Suddenly, it feels more possible than ever that the Minnesota Vikings may really do the unthinkable, and move on the human lightning rod that is Aaron Rodgers.

Related: Brett Favre Urges Aaron Rodgers to Sign with Vikings

In fact, reports this afternoon say the Vikings have had serious talks last night and today about that exact possibility. Kevin Seifert (ESPN) was the first to pour gas on the Rodgers + Vikings rumors. Dianna Russini (The Athletic) followed shortly after.

Updating the Vikings' QB situation today on @SportsCenter following Daniel Jones' decision to sign with the Colts. A curveball remains *possible* as we otherwise await the public coronation of J.J. McCarthy. pic.twitter.com/aejA5skSFL

— Kevin Seifert (@SeifertESPN) March 12, 2025

“My understanding is that the Vikings have at least been entertaining the possibility internally of what it would look like to add Aaron Rodgers into this quarterback room. The idea would be, you have a 14-win team, you have the reigning coach of the year in Kevin O’Connell, you have an All-Pro receiver in Justin Jefferson, offensive and defensive lines that have been upgraded here in free agency, and also a pretty great defense under Brian Flores.

So you drop Aaron Rodgers into that mix and potentially you have a Super Bowl favorite for 2025. That would obviously push JJ McCarthy’s timetable back a year, to 2026. I don’t have any information to suggest [Rodgers signing with the Vikings] is the likely scenario right now. But I do know that, as of yesterday evening, they were having that discussion internally — whether Aaron Rodgers is the right option for 2025, whether he’s right for their building, their culture and the organization. So the best thing I can say there is, stay tune, it’s not quite over yet.”

Kevin Seifert – ESPN (SportsCenter)

Vikings decision-makers are still evaluating their options at quarterback, including the possibility of signing Aaron Rodgers. The four-time MVP is intrigued by the idea of playing in Minnesota. For now, it’s a waiting game, sources tell @mikesilver and me. pic.twitter.com/CK2UqzL596

— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) March 12, 2025

At 41 years old, Rodgers is running on fumes, but with this roster, that could be plenty of gas for one last run at a Super Bowl, just as Brett Favre. Last year with the dysfunctional Jets, A-Rodge threw for 3,897 yards, 28 touchdowns and 11 interceptions.

While it’s clear most still believe Aaron Rodgers signing with the Minnesota Vikings is far from imminent, it’s clear that the longer he goes unsigned and those inside TCO Performance Center refuse to shut down these rumors, the louder they will get.

Related: Vikings Skyrocket Up NFL O-Line Investment Rankings

Will that eventually end up with Rodgers wearing purple. We certainly aren’t to a point where we can start thinking about a No. 12 to No. 18 connection, but we know how much KOC respects the 4X MVP, and he is the one who holds the final say on anything quarterback-related.

More must-reads:

• Minnesota Vikings in Contact with Another Veteran QB
• Aaron Rodgers Really is Waiting for the Vikings
• Report: Minnesota Vikings Interested in Former OPOY

It’s reportedly official. The Minnesota Vikings have decided to move on from 2024 successful rehabilitation project Sam Darnold, in order to officially start the transition process to No. 10 overall pick JJ McCarthy.

But the latest reports coming out of NFL insider circles, as free agency approaches on March 12, is that the Vikings are not confident enough in JJ’s development to just hand him the keys to Kevin O’Connell’s offense.

At the very least, it appears the Vikings want QB competition for McCarthy this summer, and during training camp. The type of bridge option that Sam Darnold represented for the Minnesota Vikings last summer/fall.

Minnesota Vikings eyeing Aaron Rodgers…?

You know, the former QB1 throwaway types that would enter camp as more of an insurance option, in case their redshirt rookie isn’t ready to take the reins, for whatever reason. With Darnold now in a higher class, and thus out of the picture, O’Connell and Kwesi are expected to dive back into that same QB1 fixer-upper shelf.

According to Mike Garafolo (NFL Network), Minnesota’s top option remains former Giants QB Daniel Jones, something that others have reported too. But if Jones ends up elsewhere, Garafolo has the MN Vikings pivoting to another veteran QB you may have heard of. None other than infamous former Green Bay Packer… Aaron Rodgers.

Last night appears to have been the start of some QB chaos. If Daniel Jones doesn’t remain with the #Vikings, that will make it even more chaotic, as Aaron Rodgers could be in play in Minnesota, which would then force the #Giants to turn to Plan C…

Lots to play out next week. https://t.co/TcyMTvVd9I

— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) March 8, 2025

Had Kevin O’Connell & Co brought their 2024 MVP candidate back in 2025, he would have represented a much different bridge option than what Daniel Jones and other former high-end draft picks turned throwaway QBs. Aaron Rodgers would be more than that.

Can Rodgers still ball…?

Look, Rodgers is not the same quarterback he once was. There’s no doubting that. But a look at the numbers will make you wonder. Last season, the New York Jets team falling apart around him and media desperate to make him into public enemy No. 1, the 41-year-old quarterback threw for 3,897 yards, 28 touchdowns and 11 interceptions.

Yes, his completion percentage and TD/INT ratio were at all-time lows… but remember how bad Darnold’s numbers were playing for that god forsaken franchise? Kevin O’Connell will decide who is under center for the purple in 2025, but if anyone can squeeze whatever talent is left out of A-Rodg… it’s the MN Vikings head coach.

Vintage Aaron Rodgers was on full display vs the Patriots

Here are his BEST plays in the Jets Home Opener:#JetUp pic.twitter.com/0py94KKzL9

— 𝙅𝙀𝙏𝙎 𝙈𝙀𝘿𝙄𝘼🛫 (@NYJets_Media) September 20, 2024

Much like what would have been the case had Darnold stuck around, JJ McCarthy would enter camp as the clear No. 2 option, if the Vikings really are serious about a pursuit of their infamous former rival. Without a doubt, you’d have to think Rodgers would be delighted to get a call from the Minnesota Vikings.

Related: Former Vikings QB Feuding with New Team Yet Again…

There may be no other offense in the league more ready for a plug-and-play veteran QB than the Vikings. Is Aaron Rodgers that guy? The NFL world doesn’t know yet, but if the former 4X NFL MVP and Super Bowl winner still sees himself in that light, the MN Vikings have to be his top option this offseason.

More must-reads:

• Minnesota Vikings in Contact with Another Veteran QB
• Aaron Rodgers Really is Waiting for the Vikings
• Report: Minnesota Vikings Interested in Former OPOY

Last season, offseason the Minnesota Vikings signed running back Aaron Jones, after division rival Green Bay let him walk. The 30-year-old veteran responded with one of the more impressive seasons of his career.

Not only did Jones start all 17 games for just the second time in eight NFL seasons, but he also finished with a career best 1,138 rushing yards on 255 carries. He also added 51 receptions for 408 yards, the second-most receiving yards of his career and most since 2019 (474).

Aaron Jones is priority No. 1 for the Minnesota Vikings

The Minnesota Vikings loved what they got last season, from Aaron Jones, which is why they are open to retaining his services in 2025. And they’re willing to pay a pretty hefty sum to get it done. According to Darren “Doogie” Wolfson, bringing Jones back is “priority number one”.

That doesn’t mean the two sides are destined for a reunion, however. Per Wolfson’s report, Minnesota isn’t willing to pay Jones more than what they paid him last season ($7 million), possibly “a tick less”.

“On the running back front, I continue to hear that the Vikings are having dialog with Drew Rosenhaus representation, with Aaron Jones in mind, what is that price point? I don’t think the Vikings are going beyond $7 million on Aaron Jones. It may even be a tick less than that. The Vikings want Aaron Jones back. That is priority number one.”

Darren Wolfson – SKOR North

The only disappointing side to Aaron Jones’ 2024 stat sheet was his inability to punch the ball into the endzone, especially in goal line situations. While he performed at his peak, in terms of rushing and receiving yards, he struggled to punch the ball into the endzone, rushing for only five touchdowns and catching just two.

Related: What Does Raiders QB Trade Mean for Vikings, Sam Darnold?

Nonetheless, given the reinvigorated importance expected to be placed on the running back position this offseason, it’s realistic to think Aaron Jones can find more than one year, $7M elsewhere. Given the strong batch of running backs in this year’s draft, combined with what’s expected to be available in free agency next week, the Minnesota Vikings appear comfortable drawing that line in the sand.

Vikings eyeing Najee Harris as Jones backup plan

Part of that was his fault, and part can be helped out with offensive line upgrades. Local insider Darren “Doogie” Wolfson isn’t sure the MN Vikings are locked in on running it back though, and that’s where Najee Harris comes in.

“If they have to pivot, if Jones ends up elsewhere, Najee Harris. My understanding is that Najee Harris is on the Vikings radar.”

Darren Wolfson – SKOR North

Najee Harris is an intriguing name if Minnesota does have to pivot though. Harris, the former Pittsburgh Steelers 24th overall pick in 2021, presents a sizable difference in youth. He will be just 27 years old in 2025, and has started 17 games for four straight seasons (68 total).

Harris has been a 1,000-yard rusher in each of his professional seasons, but the past three have dipped from the 1,200 he put up as a rookie. The former Alabama back has four inches of height and nearly thirty pounds of weight on Jones.

Najee Harris pic.twitter.com/vro630IW4T

— Ian Hartitz (@Ihartitz) March 3, 2025

The Steelers usage of Harris has changed significantly in recent seasons. After running him 307 times and throwing another 94 passes his way in 2021, Harris saw just 263 carries and 48 targets last season. His 4.0 yards per carry in 2024 probably leave something to be desired, but an argument can be made that he has relatively fresh legs.

Related: Vikings + Byron Murphy Jr Contract Talks Reportedly Falling Apart

It will be interesting to see where the contract figure comes in for Harris. Last season Jones signed for $7 million with Minnesota. If they want to stick at that number, or a bit less, that doesn’t give Harris a ton of upward room for his first foray into free agency. He made $2.4 million in 2024.

MN Vikings need multiple running backs

The Vikings aren’t just looking at the potential of losing Aaron Jones from their running back room. Cam Akers is also a free agent. That leaves only Ty Chandler among those with experience at the position. The good news is that whether it’s Jones or Harris, the Minnesota Vikings are making running back a priority. A loaded running back draft class will certainly help their cause in the backfield, too.

Minnesota currently has just three picks, and two of them are in the fifth round. It’s certainly plausible that general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah trades back to acquire more draft capital. It’s also beyond logical to suggest that the MN Vikings could land a capable running back on day three.

While Ashton Jeanty is the cream of the crop, this group has enough talent for every single team to make a selection. Pairing a rookie running back with a veteran and Chandler would give the Vikings a relatively strong stable.

Kevin O’Connell has never leaned heavily on the running game, and that’s not likely to change. However, if expected offensive line improvements open more holes, it’s probably an area to utilize.

More must-reads:

• Minnesota Vikings in Contact with Another Veteran QB
• Aaron Rodgers Really is Waiting for the Vikings
• Report: Minnesota Vikings Interested in Former OPOY

The new NFL league year is nearly upon us. You can feel the anticipation every time you log onto Twitter (X) or see a push notification come across the wire. That’s because, starting Monday March 10, Minnesota Vikings free agents will officially be able to negotiate with other teams. On Wednesday, their 2025 unrestricted free agents will be able to sign contracts elsewhere.

At cornerback, the Vikings depth chart should be called the lack of depth chart, because they currently have no depth at the position. All four of the Vikings most relied upon CBs from last season — Byron Murphy Jr, Stephon Gilmore, Shaq Griffin and Fabian Moreau — are scheduled to hit free agency next week.

Stephon Gilmore is supposedly pondering retirement, Shaq Griffin is expected to be gettable again, if Minnesota wants him back. But the biggest question needing answered at CB revolves around 27-year-old cornerback Byron Murphy Jr, easily the most valuable secondary asset the Vikings held, entering the offseason.

Contract talks between Minnesota Vikings and Byron Murphy Jr falling apart…?

According to all reports, the Minnesota Vikings wanted Byron Murphy Jr back in the worst way, and negotiations had been ongoing recently. Earlier this week, Murphy even got fans excited when he posted a Vikings-heavy highlight story to his Instagram account, as many thought he might be hinting at a yet to be announced extension.

Report: Nobody Knows Who is Calling the Shots for Vikings

Unfortunately, it looks like talks between Murphy Jr and the Minnesota Vikings are not going as well as each side would have hoped. According to Jordan Schultz (FOX Sports), as we head into the weekend, the Vikings have not able to reach an agreement with Byron Murphy Jr, who is now expected to hit free agency on Wednesday.

Sources: While Minnesota wants him back, free agent CB Byron Murphy is poised to hit the open market on Monday when the legal tampering period begins, and he’s anticipated to have a strong market.

The 27-year-old is coming off a Pro Bowl season and has totaled nine interceptions… pic.twitter.com/mPOenOkAaQ

— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) March 7, 2025

We’ve talked plenty about Sam Darnold, and whether or not to believe recent reports tying their 27-year-old former No. 3 overall draft QB back to Minnesota, for an encore to his breakout 2024 season. But there’s no doubt the fate of Byron Murphy Jr is next up on the list of talented free agents set to hit the market on March 12.

What will the Vikings lose if Murphy Jr walks?

In his two years with Minnesota, Byron Murphy Jr collected 138 tackles, 10 TFL, 2 forced fumbles, 27 passes defended and 9 interceptions, six of which came in 2024, the University of Washington alum’s best NFL season so far. Murphy Jr was graded a 72.8 overall by PFF on defense last season, including a 72.6 coverage grade.

On Thursday, the MN Vikings extended the other safety they drafted in 2022, 6th round pick Theo Jackson out of Tennessee. That seemed to signal the end of Cam Bynum’s time in purple. Recent reports also suggest that future Ring of Honor member, Harrison Smith, is expected to come back for his 14th NFL season.

Related: Schefter No Longer Buying Sam Darnold + Vikings Rumors

But if Murphy Jr doesn’t come back, it’s a guarantee the Minnesota Vikings secondary will look a lot different next season. Assuming he leaves, we can expect whoever is running the operation in Eagan to turn their focus to other names at the top of the cornerback free agency market.

More must-reads:

• Minnesota Vikings in Contact with Another Veteran QB
• Aaron Rodgers Really is Waiting for the Vikings
• Report: Minnesota Vikings Interested in Former OPOY

When the franchise tag deadline came and went on Tuesday, most of us thought we would get closure regarding what the Minnesota Vikings were going to do with pending free agent QB Sam Darnold. If they didn’t tag him, the overwhelming belief was that Sam would be on his way elsewhere soon after next week’s free agency bell rings on March 12.

Instead, the opposite has happened. Since the tag deadline, the last few days have been dominated by reports that Darnold and the Vikings are both interested in running it back on a multi-year deal for the 27-year-old former No. 3 overall pick.

Minnesota Vikings + Sam Darnold rumors leading to NFL interest in JJ McCarthy

That has led other teams watching the Vikings’ situation very closely, like the Las Vegas Raiders, to wonder what possibilities the future may hold. Could JJ McCarthy be the QB in Minnesota that comes available, no Sam Darnold?

According to Raiders beat reporter Hondo Carpenter (Sports Illustrated) — on Thursday’s Las Vegas Raiders Insider Podcast — Vegas is very interested in JJ McCarthy, should he come available. He expects serious trade offers from the Raiders, should the Vikings and Darnold find common ground on a long-term deal.

“There is a lot of smoke that the Vikings and Sam Darnold are working on an extended deal, which would be two or more years. Last night, by someone who has been giving me information throughout this process, I was told that if Sam Darnold were to get a multi-year deal, that the chances would improve that Minnesota would trade [McCarthy].”

“If JJ McCarthy were to become available, I know that there would be interest from the Raiders. Interested doesn’t mean a trade would be imminent, but I know there would be interest there”

“If it’s a one-year deal for [Sam Darnold], I do not expect McCarthy to be available. I don’t think he’s going to sign a one year [deal]. He might, this part is purely speculative on my part, but I don’t think he will [sign a one year deal]. So if [Darnold] gets a [multi-year deal in Minnesota] then all eyes need to be on JJ McCarthy. I know factually that there would be interest from the Raiders.”

Hondo Carpenter (SI) – Las Vegas Raiders Insider Podcast

Now, these Darnold + Vikings rumors fly in the face of what has been reported out of Eagan regarding Minnesota’s thoughts on JJ McCarthy,going back 11 months. Even since his meniscus injury, and resulting surgery, not one time have the Vikings expressed concerns regarding JJ’s development, outside of some possible weight loss issues during his recovery.

Related: Nobody Knows Who is Calling the Shots for Vikings

Everything put out publicly, to this point, suggests that Kevin O’Connell loves where McCarthy is at. If anything, the Vikings have remained 100% convinced JJ is the future of their franchise, at QB. That’s why it’s been difficult to make sense of what’s been happening the past few days. But could the tide be changing on this whole, ‘the Vikings want Darnold back’ narrative?

Schefter backpedals on likelihood Darnold returns to Minnesota Vikings

One of the most trusted NFL insiders to throw gas on this week’s ‘Darnold could return to the Vikings’ fire was ESPN’s Adam Schefter, who reported on Wednesday that Sam landing back in Minnesota is what “makes the most sense”.

On Friday, however, Schefty got on KFAN Radio with his buddy, Vikings radio VOX, Paul Allen, where he very much walked his previous report back. Now, Adam believes the opposite of what he reported just two days ago, telling PA, “I don’t view [Sam Darnold returning] as a likely scenario, right now.”

PA: “If it were a 0-10, what number would you put on [Sam Darnold being] the starting quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings next year?”

Schefter: “Not high… not high. Again, as we go over all these scenarios, they’re all in play. But I think [returning to] the Vikings is a down low scenario. I don’t view [Sam Darnold returning] as a likely scenario, right now.”

92Noon with Paul Allen (KFAN Radio) – Friday, March 7

What does this little Schefter nugget tell us about the rumors flying around linking the Minnesota Vikings to a new contract with Sam Darnold? In all likelihood, it means that most of the chatter has being driven by Sam’s representation, not anyone who matters within the Vikings organization.

The insider reporting world is ripe with “quid pro quo” deals between sources and reporters, in all brands of news. That’s especially true in the sports world, however. That’s why it is important to point out who Darnold is currently represented by, which is the very powerful Creative Arts Agency (CAA).

Related: Another Sam Darnold Suitor Revealed

When we start to connect these dots, the reports coming out this week start to make more sense. It’s been Darnold’s representatives pushing their weight around the past two weeks, feeding reporters with one-sided information that they may or may not be able to verify elsewhere, but never with the Vikings.

Since, all offseason long, the those inside of TCO Performance Center have mostly avoided any and all leaks regarding their plans this offseason.

Even Sam Darnold doesn’t know where he might be playing next year

With higher-ups in the Vikings organization refusing to confirm or deny rumors behind the scenes, insiders are forced to rely on other sources for information. Not having the latest info on each team is not an option for guys like Schefter.

That’s why, when asked where he believes Sam Darnold will play next season, Schefter admitted he has no idea. He doesn’t even think Sam has any idea yet, either. Meanwhile, the Vikings aren’t talking to anyone.

PA: “Where would ‘per sources’ lead you to believe where Sam Darnold will play next season?” do you think

Schefter: “I think Sam Darnold is still trying to figure out where Sam Darnold is going to be playing next season. I don’t think he knows, right now, where he will be playing next season.”

92Noon with Paul Allen (KFAN Radio) – Friday, March 7

More than likely, these reports that the Vikings and Darnold are trying to work out a new deal are Sam’s team trying to drive up his price in free agency, before the NFL negotiating period begins on Monday. I would not expect the rumor mill to slow down this weekend, either, as all pending free agents jockey for the best possible negotiating angles.

More must-reads:

• Minnesota Vikings in Contact with Another Veteran QB
• Aaron Rodgers Really is Waiting for the Vikings
• Report: Minnesota Vikings Interested in Former OPOY

With the 2025 NFL Combine in the books, the Minnesota Vikings are gearing up for March 10, when the free agent negotiating period begins. On March 12, the new league year kicks off and teams can officially start signing free agents at 3 p.m. CST.

The Vikings have some big decisions to make in the next week, and they need to have a plan because we all know the NFL offseason waits for nobody. Things are expected to move fast next Wednesday, and Minnesota has key players like Aaron Jones, Byron Murphy Jr., Cam Bynum and Shaq Griffin all set to hit the market. Then, there’s Harrison Smith and Stephon Gilmore, who are both reportedly pondering retirement.

Minnesota Vikings looking at Will Fries and Milton Williams

Besides possibly re-signing some of their own players, the Minnesota Vikings are expected to be extremely active when the negotiating period begins on Monday. According to Alec Lewis (The Athletic), there are two notable mid-20-year-old top free agent linemen to keep an eye on, one on each side of the ball — Colts guard Will Fries and Eagles defensive tackle Milton Williams.

The Vikings are going to be active when free agency begins next week. They need reinforcements on the interior of the offensive line, the interior of the defensive line, at cornerback and elsewhere. They also have more than $60 million in cap space. The market will be competitive, but Minnesota will be squarely in the mix for some premium options.

The two most interesting targets are guard Will Fries and defensive tackle Milton Williams. Secure one of those players, and the Vikings will immediately strengthen the trenches, which is a primary offseason focus. Miss out on both players, and Minnesota will adapt with more money to spend at different spots. Simply put: Expect a flurry of activity.

Alec Lewis – The Athletic

Fries, a seventh-round pick by the Colts in 2021, just wrapped up a stellar 2024 season, earning an impressive 86.9 PFF grade, and making him a valuable target for teams looking to solidify their offensive line… like the Minnesota Vikings.

Williams, fresh off a Super Bowl win with the Eagles, had a dominant season as a pass rusher. He posted a remarkable 90.4 PFF grade, ranking second in the NFL behind only Chiefs star Chris Jones. With that kind of production, he’s expected to be a highly sought-after name in free agency, especially for teams needing interior pass-rush help.

VIKINGS FREE AGENT SPOTLIGHT: Milton Williams

I’ve heard plenty of people dismiss DT in Free Agency because the draft is stacked, but Milton Williams is too talented to pass up on. He is such a versatile pass rusher that would immediately elevate the whole DL unit. He is coming… https://t.co/kuPz0053Xw pic.twitter.com/JxoKzEXTT8

— 𝙆𝙖𝙨𝙚 (@verysadvikings) February 27, 2025

Vikings are gonna be very busy this month

Like Lewis says, landing one of these guys would be a massive boost for the trenches. However, what’s just as interesting is Lewis’ final note: “Simply put: Expect a flurry of activity.” He’s predicting a busy free agency period for the MN Vikings, which should make for an exciting month for fans. With plenty of roster moves on the horizon, Minnesota’s front office has some big decisions to make.

It’ll be interesting to see which players the Minnesota Vikings bring back and who they sign in free agency as they build toward the 2025 season. With key positions to address, this could be a defining offseason for the team. Whether they make a splash with a big signing or focus on depth, the next few weeks could shape the roster in a big way.

More must-reads:

• Minnesota Vikings in Contact with Another Veteran QB
• Aaron Rodgers Really is Waiting for the Vikings
• Report: Minnesota Vikings Interested in Former OPOY

Is there such thing as too much collaboration? If so, are the Minnesota Vikings suffering from collaberation overload this offseason? Ever heard of the old adage, “there are too many cooks in the kitchen”? There’s a reason that saying exists, and it has little to do with food.

Of course there is such thing as too much collaboration. Most projects, businesses, governments, etc… run best with one person at the top of the pyramid whose job is to make final decisions on all of the most difficult questions. Yes, collaboration is important, and very much necessary. But too much of a good thing, is still too much.

And after the NFL Combine got all of the most important people in the league together in Indianapolis last week, it sounds like the Minnesota Vikings may be having issues with their chain of command at TCO Performance Center in Eagan.

Other NFL teams aren’t sure who is steering Minnesota Vikings ship

This after ProFootballTalk.com creator (and Vikings fan) Mike Florio got on the Paul Allen Show (KFAN) Wednesday and revealed that he is hearing behind the scenes that other teams around the NFL walked away from the scouting combine unsure of who exactly is running the operation in Minnesota. — 47:00 minute mark

“There is a sense from people who are dealing with the Vikings that they don’t know who’s in charge. They don’t know who’s calling the shots. Maybe that’s deliberate, maybe it’s part of the strategy, maybe it’s part of the negotiation…I don’t know.

But, there’s a real sense of confusion as to who’s got the final say on this. Who wants Darnold, who wants McCarthy, who’s making these decisions. It’s created this sense, you’ve seen from reports that it’s very fluid, one reason why it’s fluid is because nobody’s got a clear picture of who, at the end of the day, is making the call between Darnold and McCarthy.”

Mike Florio on KFAN Radio

Obviously, this report has a lot of tentacles. But you cannot start any decision maker conversation surrounding the Minnesota Vikings without mentioning the fact that head coach Kevin O’Connell received a massive contract extension immediately after the 2024 season ended.

Kwesi Adofo-Mensah losing control to Kevin O’Connell…?

At the time, we were told that Kwesi Adofo-Mensah’s contract extension was on the way, right after. Here we are on the verge of free agency, a month later, and the Vikings are still yet to extend their general manager, something others around the league have taken notice of. Now, there are whispers coming out of the NFL Combine that other executives around the NFL aren’t sure who is steering the ship in Eagan?

Related: Schefter: Sam Darnold Back to Vikings Makes Most Sense

We were led to believe O’Connell did not receive any additional decision making power, with his new extension, but could those reports have been misleading? It’s also worth noting that Darren Wolfson (KSTP) reported last week on SKOR North that Kwesi left the NFL Combine early and that league executives were impressed by how Kevin O’Connell operated in his place.

“Apparently, Kwesi Adofo-Mensah is battling some sort of illness…talking to multiple people that had direct interaction with Kevin O’Connell, I was told that he was thoroughly prepared…He had everything he needed right at his disposal, he articulated what he thinks or what he hopes the plan will be better than any other general manager did, per one person who was in a meeting with KOC…This person told me, by far, the best meeting was with Kevin O’Connell leading the meeting with the Vikings.”

“We don’t know what the language is in his contract extension. We can wonder aloud, absolutely under the reckless speculation umbrella, but how much say will he now have? He’s had say, but does he perhaps have more say now with the 53-man roster.

We hear it all the time, but Kwesi Adofo-Mensah was at the podium on Tuesday, ‘collaboration’. It’s a very popular buzzword, but it felt like Kwesi went out of his way to use that word on Tuesday. Can we read between the lines a little bit, we often have to do that. I am just wondering aloud. The fact of the matter is, KOC was front and center [at the combine] with the caveat that Kwesi was said to be battling an illness.”

Darren Wolfson – Mackey & Judd (SKOR North)

So, who is running the Minnesota Vikings operation this offseason? It sounds like those around the league aren’t really sure. Throw that in with the fact that Adofo-Mensah’s deal still isn’t done, along with how impressive Kevin O’Connell was at the NFL combine and the fact that Kwesi left Indianapolis “sick”… and this is definitely a situation worth monitoring.

More must-reads:

• Minnesota Vikings in Contact with Another Veteran QB
• Aaron Rodgers Really is Waiting for the Vikings
• Report: Minnesota Vikings Interested in Former OPOY