The Minnesota Vikings currently have just one quarterback under contract for next season, and with J.J. McCarthy yet to play a regular-season snap, there could be a need for a veteran quarterback to step in temporarily.
Among the potential options, Aaron Rodgers stands out as having the most impressive resume. CBS Sports’ Cody Benjamin, a former NFL agent, listed the Vikings as one of the top three landing spots for Rodgers.
Benjamin pointed out the intriguing storybook parallels between Rodgers and Brett Favre, who also moved from Green Bay to the Jets and later finished his career with the Vikings. He also suggested the move is quite plausible. The Vikings may prefer to re-sign current starter Sam Darnold, who has played reasonably well under head coach Kevin O’Connell.
However, if Darnold opts for a more lucrative opportunity in free agency next year, Minnesota might look for a veteran placeholder while McCarthy recovers from knee surgery. Rodgers could step into a strong situation with a talented offensive line, skill weapons, and defense, making it a compelling opportunity. Vikings GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah was part of the San Francisco 49ers front office when they reportedly attempted to acquire Rodgers in 2021, adding further fuel to the speculation.
Rodgers is currently in the second year of a two-year, $75 million contract with the New York Jets, with a $2.5 million base salary. If the Jets find a trade partner, they would remain responsible for much of his contract.
While Benjamin explored several potential destinations for Rodgers, he emphasized that the decision ultimately rests with Rodgers himself. At 41, Rodgers is one of the most polarizing figures in the NFL, known for his unconventional behavior and outspoken personality.
Benjamin argued that if Rodgers doesn’t return for a third season with the Jets, he may decide to retire. He noted that Rodgers struggled to leave the Packers in 2023 and that New York was the place he specifically wanted to be. The Jets’ efforts to accommodate him, such as bringing in former Packers staff and players, further highlighted this.
Benjamin also pointed out that starting over at 41, following two injury-plagued seasons, would be challenging. It would likely require joining a team that may not be prepared to make a championship run or that isn’t willing to give him significant control. Rodgers could decide that, like Tom Brady, it’s time to retire rather than risk additional frustration.
Other Quarterback Options for the Vikings in 2025
Regardless of what happens with Rodgers, the Vikings will likely be looking for quarterbacks this offseason. Darnold is expected to depart, and both Nick Mullens and Brett Rypien will be free agents as well.
A veteran quarterback would be ideal to help develop McCarthy, and several potential free agents in 2025 could fit that role. These include Jacoby Brissett, Jameis Winston, Joe Flacco, Andy Dalton, Marcus Mariota, Taylor Heinecke, and Jimmy Garoppolo.
