The Minnesota Vikings have spent much of the offseason weighing their quarterback options for 2025, particularly around whether to move forward with J.J. McCarthy or consider another route. Things kicked off when Sam Darnold, last year’s starter, opted to sign with the Seattle Seahawks to be their QB1. The Vikings also explored the idea of bringing in veteran Aaron Rodgers, formerly of the Packers and Jets, before ultimately choosing McCarthy to lead the team this season.
Still, the team may look to add another quarterback to back up McCarthy. Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox recently put together a list of one free agent each NFL team could target, naming Super Bowl MVP Joe Flacco as a strong candidate for the Vikings. Knox explained that while Rodgers’ name had surfaced—head coach Kevin O’Connell even confirmed Rodgers had reached out—Flacco would be a more practical fit. “Flacco proved with the Colts last season that he can mentor a young QB and step in if needed, all without the extra spotlight Rodgers would bring,” Knox noted.
Flacco, now 40, played in eight games for the Colts last year, racking up 1,761 passing yards with 12 touchdowns and seven interceptions. He’s most remembered for his long run with the Ravens, where he led the team to a Super Bowl win. Last year, the Vikings had Daniel Jones backing up Darnold, and Brett Rypien is currently the only other quarterback on the roster.
The Vikings know firsthand how crucial a capable backup quarterback can be. Darnold played a key role in getting them to the playoffs last season, and Case Keenum nearly took them to the Super Bowl in 2018. With Flacco’s experience and steady presence, he could be the perfect safety net behind McCarthy—potentially saving the Vikings’ season if adversity strikes.