SKOR North’s Jason Harmon wrote, citing Vikings sources at the Panini Senior Bowl, that while the team still trusts McCarthy, injuries are a major concern and Anthony Richardson is viewed as a potential option early in the offseason. The Vikings are reportedly “feeli ng out” Richardson as part of a broader QB plan.
The Vikings have a notable connection to Richardson. General manager Kevin O’Connell scouted him during the 2023 pre-draft process, and analyst Brett Kollman reported that Minnesota previously dangled a “massive” offer to move up for the former No. 4 overall pick, only to be thwarted by a partner unwilling to engage.
Richardson’s path resembles McCarthy’s in some respects, with both young signal-callers hampered by limited reps due to injuries. Richardson entered the league at 21 and played four rookie-season games; in 2024 he went 6-5 as a starter, completing 47.7% of his passes for 1,814 yards with 8 touchdowns and 11 interceptions, while rushing for 499 yards and six scores. A season disrupted by injuries included an orbital fracture that sidelined him late in the year, and his fifth-year option would carry a $23 million cap hit if exercised by the Vikings in 2027.
If Minnesota acquired Richardson via trade, the Vikings could exercise the option to keep him through 2027, though the deal would likely require a third- or fourth-round pick—paralleling recent precedent from Trey Lance’s move to Dallas. Richardson would likely be viewed as a one-year rental to compete for the starting job in training camp.
In addition to Richardson, Minnesota is reportedly eyeing veteran Mac Jones as another quarterback option. Harmon noted Jones is “definitely on the Vikings radar,” though there are competing suitors. Jones remains with San Francisco for now, and Kyle Shanahan has suggested it would be surprising if he wasn’t back with the 49ers next season, which could drive up the asking price for Jones.
Overall, the Vikings are weighing veteran stability versus upside, aiming to pair a reliable presence with McCarthy while preserving long-term flexibility. The plan signals a proactive approach to building a quarterback room capable of handling injuries or performance swings next season.
