NFL Insider Expects Josh Dobbs to Remain Minnesota Vikings Starting QB in Week 14

By Jason Burgos |

Updated: Dec 3, 2023

Minnesota Vikings fans are excited for the long-awaited return of superstar receiver Justin Jefferson in Week 14, and a top NFL insider has a major update on who will be throwing him the ball when the team returns to the field next weekend.

Despite losing two straight, the Minnesota Vikings remain in the thick of the playoff chase in the NFC standings. That is why Jefferson’s return to action is so important to the organization since they were able to stay in the race despite him missing their last seven games. His elite talent could be a huge boost to their postseason hopes down the stretch of the season.

Minnesota Vikings Quarterback Conundrum

However, there are questions about who will be throwing him the ball, following a bye in Week 13. After joining the roster at the NFL trade deadline, journeyman Joshua Dobbs stunned the league by being a key part of back-to-back wins for the Vikings despite little knowledge of their offense and his new teammates. Unfortunately, that has changed since.

Dobbs was far less effective in the team’s losses to the Broncos and Bears, which included four interceptions in Chicago. Earlier this week, head coach Kevin O’Connell seemed to open the door to a QB change when he said all facets of the team would be reevaluated during the bye week.

Joshua Dobbs expected to start in Week 14

minnesota vikings — Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

Joshua Dobbs stats (Vikings): 4 games, 832 passing yards, 5 TDs, 5 INTs, 81.2 rating

Local insiders have been leaning toward Nick Mullens getting his first start of the season, and there’s still a chance rookie Jaren Hall could get the go-ahead too. But one NFL insider revealed Sunday morning that she believes Minnesota will stay the course vs the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 14.

In her latest column, The Athletic’s Dianna Russini writes, “my early sense is the team will be sticking with Dobbs”, based on intelligence from around the organization.

The decision would be understandable, given Dobbs is a far more experienced quarterback and it is worth it to see if he could form a dynamic combo with Jefferson as they get two weeks of practice together.