After allowing Sam Darnold to test free agency—where he landed a $105 million contract with the Seattle Seahawks—the Minnesota Vikings are now in search of a new starting quarterback. Many believe that role will fall to 2024 first-rounder J.J. McCarthy, though there is skepticism about whether the team is fully confident in handing the offense over to the 22-year-old, who is recovering from a significant injury. That brings top star into the picture. Multiple reports suggest Rodgers is Minnesota’s top offseason target, but the 41-year-old quarterback has remained silent since free agency opened. Insiders say Rodgers is taking his time weighing his 2025 options, with the Vikings, Steelers, and Giants all considered contenders for his services.
However, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler recently cast doubt on the Vikings’ chances during an appearance on the “Rich Eisen Show.” “From what I’ve heard from people inside the organization, Rodgers is a possibility, but it’s not likely,” Fowler said. “That’s the consistent feedback I’ve gotten. Sure, there’s always room for a surprise with Rodgers, but I wouldn’t count on it. It looks like Minnesota is preparing to move forward with J.J. McCarthy.”
Fowler also mentioned the Vikings might be waiting for other moves to unfold before committing money to a veteran backup, as they are mindful of preserving their compensatory pick formula for future draft capital. Minnesota appears heavily invested in McCarthy’s development.
Last year, the Vikings gave up fourth- and fifth-round picks just to move up one spot in the 2024 draft to secure J.J. McCarthy, amid reports that the Denver Broncos—picking right behind them—were considering a trade to jump ahead and select the former Michigan quarterback. While adding a veteran like Aaron Rodgers to mentor McCarthy for a season or two could greatly benefit the young QB’s development, it also wouldn’t be surprising if Minnesota chose to roll into the 2025 season with McCarthy as their clear-cut starter.
“All their moves, especially the two major offensive line signings, point to them being fully committed to J.J. McCarthy,” Fowler said. “What they’ve told me is that they already view him as their franchise quarterback. It’s just a matter of when that officially starts—whether it’s today, four months from now, or sometime next year.”