The Minnesota Vikings likely don’t need a veteran quarterback to start most of their regular-season games in 2025, but they may still require a signal-caller capable of stepping up when needed.
Second-year QB J.J. McCarthy is expected to compete for the starting role, though he’ll need to prove himself in training camp after missing his entire rookie season due to injury. With Sam Darnold and Daniel Jones leaving in free agency, the Vikings are still searching for a reliable backup. A veteran with substantial experience seems to fit the team’s needs more than taking a gamble on a late-round draft pick.
Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report recently suggested veteran star as the best free agent to provide McCarthy with mentorship while also serving as a solid backup option for Minnesota in 2025. While rumors surrounding the Vikings and Aaron Rodgers persist—especially after head coach Kevin O’Connell confirmed Rodgers had reached out to Minnesota—Knox believes top star would be a more practical choice. He demonstrated last season with the Indianapolis Colts that he can guide a young quarterback while remaining prepared to step in as a starter if needed. He could offer the same support to McCarthy without drawing the same attention that Rodgers would.
Joe Flacco Arguably Best Veteran QB Option to Back Up Vikings’ J.J. McCarthy
Flacco seems like the most logical option for the Vikings if they are seeking a veteran quarterback.
While Minnesota has reportedly discussed the position with Ryan Tannehill, the fact that he missed the entire previous season while waiting for a starting opportunity could give the Vikings pause. A full year off might raise concerns, especially when compared to other free-agent quarterbacks who don’t have the experience and track record that Flacco brings.
Flacco, who won a Super Bowl MVP with the Baltimore Ravens after the 2012 season, has been an inconsistent starter in recent years. However, he helped the Cleveland Browns secure a 4-1 record to close out the 2023 season, leading them to a wildcard playoff berth. Additionally, he played in eight games for the Colts last season, starting six. He posted 1,761 passing yards, 12 touchdowns, and 8 interceptions, finishing with a 2-4 record.
Browns Represent Potential Competition for Joe Flacco
The Vikings are likely seeking a one-year solution for their backup quarterback role this season, and securing one at a reasonable cost is a priority for the front office, especially after investing significant salary cap space into overhauling the offensive and defensive lines.
Spotrac estimates Flacco’s market value at $3.2 million for a one-year deal, which fits within Minnesota’s budget.
The biggest competition for the Vikings in securing Flacco could come from the Browns, who will need a starting quarterback if they decide not to draft one with the No. 2 overall pick. Cleveland fans embraced Flacco during their playoff run two years ago, and he might have an opportunity to start there with only an injured Deshaun Watson and Kenny Pickett currently on the roster.