The Minnesota Vikings are set for a major overhaul in 2025, with a roster that will look drastically different from the one Kevin O’Connell has managed during his first three seasons as head coach.
A key change is at quarterback, where the Vikings are making a bold move by handing the QB1 spot to J.J. McCarthy. This comes after bidding farewell to Sam Darnold, who had a standout season. McCarthy’s promotion is risky, especially since he missed most of his rookie year due to a torn meniscus sustained in the preseason opener.
McCarthy was a standout college quarterback at Michigan, leading the team to a national championship, but questions about his health remain. The Vikings can’t fully assess his recovery until offseason training kicks off, possibly not until training camp. Until then, uncertainty looms.
With only Brett Rypien as a backup—who hasn’t thrown a pass in 2024 and has never played more than four games in a season—the Vikings’ quarterback situation is precarious. In 2022, Rypien completed 53 of 88 passes for 483 yards with 2 touchdowns and 4 interceptions for the Denver Broncos.
However, the Vikings are expected to make a significant quarterback move before the season begins. While a 41-year-old Aaron Rodgers isn’t in the cards, names like Joe Flacco or Ryan Tannehill could be on their radar, with other potential options emerging as the offseason unfolds.
For now, finding a backup quarterback isn’t the team’s top priority. Instead, the Vikings are focusing on a major shift in their offensive strategy, transitioning away from the heavy passing attack that has been the hallmark since drafting star wide receiver Justin Jefferson.
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