JUST-IN; Vikings’ QB Solution Found?: Vikings Eye Game-Changing Veteran QB to Back Up J.J. McCarthy—Is This the Bold Move They Need?

Now that the Aaron Rodgers saga has been resolved, the Minnesota Vikings can move forward with J.J. McCarthy as their starting quarterback and begin exploring realistic options for adding a veteran backup. While the trade market remains a possibility, there are several notable veterans available who have been stuck in limbo due to the Rodgers situation.

As free agency kicked off on March 10, ESPN’s Vikings beat writer Kevin Seifert shared that analyst Dan Orlovsky suggested a veteran quarterback for the Vikings. Although Daniel Jones signed with the Indianapolis Colts to secure a starting role, Orlovsky’s suggestion of Jameis Winston for Minnesota initially seemed a bit surprising. However, a deeper look reveals that it could be a smart move, especially now that the Rodgers drama has ended.

CBS Sports’ Cody Benjamin recently listed Winston as an ideal fit for the Vikings, matching him with the team as one of the top remaining free agents. Another possibility is Carson Wentz, a big-armed journeyman with Midwestern ties, but Winston’s slightly younger age and more recent starting experience make him a compelling option. Additionally, Kevin O’Connell may appreciate Winston’s fiery leadership style, which could complement the developing McCarthy.

Jameis Winston

While the mention of Wentz is intriguing, Benjamin kept his focus on Winston as the top choice to back up McCarthy. Despite his earlier years of inconsistency—both on and off the field—Winston has settled into a valuable backup role and has shown leadership over the past few seasons.

Winston still plays with a bit of a “YOLO” mentality, as evidenced by his 12 interceptions last season with the Browns (11 of which came in just four starts), along with three 300-yard games. But his style also makes him an ideal backup quarterback: entertaining, capable, and experienced, without posing a threat to McCarthy’s development. The Vikings have several options as they search for the right veteran quarterback, and Winston’s name is quickly gaining traction as a strong candidate.