The Minnesota Vikings have left the possibility open to revisit discussions with Aaron Rodgers later this offseason. However, General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah emphasized that their main plan is to have J.J. McCarthy start as quarterback in 2025.
Rodgers has a strong relationship with Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell, and Adofo-Mensah mentioned that the two will stay in touch. Despite this, NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero provided a clearer view of the situation.
“As of late March, the Pittsburgh Steelers are currently Aaron’s only option,” Pelissero reported on “The Jim Rome Show” on March 27. “The Giants showed interest, but it didn’t seem like Rodgers was as keen on them. He had real interest in joining Minnesota, but the way it’s been reported has been exaggerated. It was always a long shot for Minnesota, because they’re confident J.J. McCarthy is the future at QB.”
Rodgers, 41, has an offer from the Steelers, but that deal remains unsigned, possibly while he waits for the Vikings to finalize their decision regarding McCarthy or add another veteran to challenge him.
The Vikings traded up in the 2024 draft to select McCarthy at No. 10 overall and will give him the chance to prove he’s the best starting option.
Pelissero added, “At this point, the chances of Rodgers going to Minnesota are very slim. His options are to either commit to the Steelers or wait to see if anything else develops.”
The Vikings’ decision has raised concerns about Rodgers’ past with the Green Bay Packers and New York Jets, but McCarthy’s development remains the Vikings’ priority.
“There’s a risk if McCarthy doesn’t get reps in 2025 after missing time due to meniscus surgery last year. If they don’t give him a chance now, it could impact his development for 2026 and beyond,” Pelissero noted. “They’ve decided to move forward with McCarthy, and I don’t expect that to change.”
Currently, the only other quarterback on the Vikings’ roster is Brett Rypien, a journeyman with a 2-2 record over six NFL seasons. Adofo-Mensah mentioned the team will continue to explore veteran QB options, while Rodgers is expected to maintain communication with the Steelers.
Leave a Reply