As the Minnesota Vikings continue to distance themselves from recent speculation linking them to Aaron Rodgers, many are starting to question why the team has yet to secure a veteran quarterback to serve as J.J. McCarthy’s backup heading into next season.
According to Ben Goessling of the Minnesota Star Tribune, the delay might be strategic. In the latest Access Vikings newsletter, Goessling explained that the team could be holding off on signing a free-agent quarterback until a key NFL date passes.
“Because of the compensatory pick formula, the Vikings may wait until after 3 p.m. on April 28 to make additional signings,” Goessling noted. “Once that deadline passes, any new free agents signed will no longer impact the team’s chances of receiving compensatory draft picks for 2026.”
Veteran quarterback market continues to shrink
As time ticks by, more and more veteran quarterbacks are finding homes with teams other than Minnesota. Just this week, Case Keenum—who previously played for the Vikings—signed with the Chicago Bears. The next day, Trey Lance, formerly with the 49ers and Cowboys, joined the Los Angeles Chargers.
These were among the quarterbacks some Vikings fans hoped would be considered, but they’ve now joined a growing list of missed opportunities. That list also includes names like Jameis Winston, Mac Jones, Jacoby Brissett, Gardner Minshew, and Taylor Heinicke—all of whom have been picked up by other teams.
While the options are thinning, the cupboard isn’t completely bare. Minnesota still has several experienced free-agent quarterbacks to choose from, such as Joe Flacco, Ryan Tannehill, Carson Wentz, and Drew Lock.
Fortunately for fans, a move could be just around the corner. With the April 28 deadline fast approaching, it seems likely that the Vikings will soon make their long-awaited move to bolster their quarterback depth.
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