The Minnesota Vikings are well into the offseason, and the quarterback room is still lacking depth. While J.J. McCarthy is on track to make his debut as the starter, the team needs a reliable backup — just in case things take a turn.
Right now, Brett Rypien is penciled in as QB2. The 28-year-old veteran, and nephew of former Super Bowl MVP Mark Rypien, has started only four NFL games and likely isn’t the long-term solution behind McCarthy.
Top Quarterback Options Still Available for the Vikings in 2025
With training camp approaching and the 2025 NFL Draft just around the corner, Minnesota is expected to bring in another experienced quarterback — most likely after April 28 at 3 p.m. CDT, when free agent signings no longer impact the 2026 compensatory draft pick formula.
Alternatively, the Vikings might pursue a trade. Here are some of the most intriguing remaining QB options:
Teddy Bridgewater
A fan favorite and former Vikings first-rounder, Bridgewater has been a journeyman since his devastating knee injury in 2016. Most recently, he backed up Jared Goff in Detroit. While he’s not a game-changer, Bridgewater is smart, steady, and a great locker room presence — someone who could mentor McCarthy without overshadowing him. The only question: is he done with football or open to one last ride in Minnesota?
Carson Wentz
This might sound surprising, but Wentz — a former No. 2 overall pick and MVP candidate in 2017 — spent last season backing up Patrick Mahomes. Though he hasn’t started regularly since 2022, Wentz brings valuable experience and has seen both success and struggle in his career. He could be a relatable presence for McCarthy, especially if injury setbacks persist.
Ryan Tannehill
The Vikings have already been in contact with Tannehill, who sat out 2024 and could be signed without affecting future compensatory picks. The 11-year veteran has plenty of starting experience and thrived in play-action systems, making him a potential fit for Minnesota’s offense. If he wants to keep playing, the Vikings might be his best bet.
Kirk Cousins
Despite signing with Atlanta, rumors persist that Cousins might waive his no-trade clause after the draft. A trade would benefit Minnesota, which currently holds only four 2025 draft picks. With McCarthy on a rookie contract, the Vikings could afford Cousins’ salary. Having Cousins back as a mentor could be a win-win — assuming he doesn’t get another starting opportunity elsewhere.
Aaron Rodgers
Yes, even Rodgers is technically available. If the four-time MVP is open to joining the Vikings — and at a reasonable price — they’d have to consider it. Rodgers may not be the same player post-Achilles injury, but his 28-touchdown, 11-interception season is still starter-caliber. He’d expect to start, of course, which complicates things, but Minnesota would be foolish not to at least explore the possibility.
In the end, the Vikings’ backup quarterback search may come down to timing, availability, and who fits best behind — or ahead of — J.J. McCarthy.
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