Alec Lewis of The Athletic floated five potential names Minnesota could pursue: Kyler Murray, Mac Jones, Geno Smith, Jimmy Garoppolo, or even bringing back Kirk Cousins. He noted there isn’t a single option that definitively inspires optimism, but the Vikings are expected to explore multiple routes to strengthen the quarterback room.
NFL insider Tom Pelissero added that Murray and Smith could be viable options if either player is released this offseason. He stressed that Minnesota has not settled on a path yet and remains focused on adding a veteran to compete with McCarthy, especially in the aftermath of the Vikings’ recent front-office changes.
Rumors of a Kirk Cousins reunion also gained traction. Pelissero mentioned that Cousins could be on Minnesota’s radar if he hits the open market, given his history with coach Kevin O’Connell and the Vikings’ desire to create competition for the developing quarterback. Dianna Russini’s reporting helped fuel the discussion around Cousins’ potential return.
Context around the other names included notes that Murray’s future with the Cardinals is uncertain and that Smith could be available if the Raiders pivot in their rebuild. Jones could be an expensive trade target, which could complicate negotiations, while Cousins remains a speculative but plausible option due to previous ties to the organization.
Domonique Foxworth has also weighed in, suggesting Murray could be a fit for Minnesota if the Cardinals release him, pointing to the Vikings as a potential landing spot in the right circumstances. Overall, the discussion highlights a Vikings plan to bring in a competitive veteran landscape for McCarthy, with multiple scenarios still under consideration as offseason moves unfold.
