The Minnesota Vikings have largely dismissed the idea of signing quarterback Aaron Rodgers this offseason—but they haven’t ruled it out completely.
General manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah addressed the media, making it clear that Rodgers is not currently in the team’s plans, particularly as second-year quarterback J.J. McCarthy is expected to take the lead. However, he left a small window open, suggesting that unforeseen circumstances could change the situation. For now, the focus remains on McCarthy, whom the franchise wants to develop into its long-term starter.
This leads to another pressing question: Who will serve as McCarthy’s backup as he competes for the top spot? Right now, Brett Rypien is the only other quarterback on the roster, but given McCarthy’s lack of NFL experience, it’s unlikely the Vikings will rely solely on Rypien in that role. As a result, Minnesota is exploring available free-agent quarterbacks, with Joe Flacco emerging as a logical candidate.
Vikings Reunion With Kirk Cousins Appears Unlikely
ESPN’s Kevin Seifert recently reported that the Vikings are considering several options for a backup quarterback, including Joe Flacco, Carson Wentz, and the possibility of bringing back Kirk Cousins. Additionally, the team has reportedly been in contact with Ryan Tannehill, who did not play last season after failing to land a starting role.
However, each of these options comes with challenges. The idea of reuniting with Cousins seems particularly difficult, as he remains under contract with the Atlanta Falcons. The Falcons recently committed to keeping him by paying a $10 million roster bonus, rather than releasing him into free agency.
If Minnesota wanted Cousins back, they would need to negotiate a trade, which would likely involve giving up draft assets or players. Additionally, they would have to absorb up to $27.5 million in salary cap costs for 2025, depending on the terms of the deal. Given these financial and logistical hurdles, a Cousins reunion is an unlikely scenario.
Carson Wentz Drawing Interest Elsewhere
Another potential option is Carson Wentz, who spent last season backing up Patrick Mahomes with the Kansas City Chiefs. However, Wentz may already have a better opportunity elsewhere.
According to Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com, there is mutual interest between Wentz and the Cleveland Browns for a one-year deal. That potential signing was contingent on Russell Wilson landing elsewhere, which happened earlier this week when Wilson joined the New York Giants. With that move finalized, Wentz and the Browns appear to be progressing toward an agreement, which would take him off the table for Minnesota.
Ryan Tannehill Faces Uncertain Future
Then there’s Ryan Tannehill, a veteran with 11 years of starting experience. While he has proven himself as a capable quarterback, history shows that players who sit out an entire season—excluding injury-related absences—often struggle to regain their form.
Tannehill, who will turn 37 just before the 2025 season begins, faces a challenging path back to the field. The Tennessee Titans benched him midway through the 2023 season following an ankle injury, shifting to rookie Will Levis instead. If Tannehill signs anywhere, it may be in a depth role rather than as a true backup with starting potential.
Joe Flacco Stands Out as the Best Fit for the Vikings
Joe Flacco, despite being three years older than Tannehill, remains a more appealing option for Minnesota due to his recent success.
In 2023, Flacco helped lead the Cleveland Browns to the playoffs, going 4-1 in five starts down the stretch. In 2024, he joined the Indianapolis Colts, making eight appearances and starting six games. Impressively, he briefly overtook second-year quarterback Anthony Richardson—who was a top draft pick in 2023—based solely on performance.
Although the Colts eventually returned to Richardson, Flacco demonstrated that he still has the arm strength and experience to step in when needed. His leadership could also be valuable for McCarthy as he transitions into a starting role.
Financially, Flacco is an affordable option. Having already earned over $180 million in his career, he may be willing to sign at a team-friendly price. Spotrac estimates his market value at $3.2 million for a one-year deal, making him a practical and cost-effective choice for the Vikings.
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