The Minnesota Vikings decided against paying above market value to retain Sam Darnold or Daniel Jones. Instead, they are focusing on J.J. McCarthy and finding an appropriate backup quarterback who could either support him or compete for the starting role in 2025.
The success of this approach largely depends on McCarthy’s rapid development and growth in his second professional season, which will be his first season playing in meaningful games. The secondary focus is on securing a veteran quarterback to complement McCarthy in the QB room.
While McCarthy’s performance remains uncertain, the identity of the player who will mentor, support, and back him up is a critical consideration in the coming days.
The official start of the new NFL season came at 4 p.m. ET on Wednesday, March 12, bringing news that one quarterback the Vikings had long admired and had recently been connected to is no longer available.
Marcus Mariota has re-signed with the Washington Commanders on a one-year, $8 million contract, removing a strong veteran option to back up McCarthy from the market.
Darren Wolfson of KSTP mentioned on “SKOR North” on Tuesday that Mariota had long been a favorite within the Vikings’ front office.
“People in this front office have been fans of Marcus Mariota for years,” Wolfson said.
With over 16,000 passing yards and nearly 75 career starts, Mariota holds a record of 34-40 in the NFL. He performed exceptionally well in limited action last season, completing 34 of 44 passes for 364 yards, 4 touchdowns, and no interceptions over four games.
Now entering his 32nd year, Mariota has earned more than $75 million during his 10-year career. He possesses the skill set to step in as McCarthy’s backup without posing a threat to McCarthy’s starting role or his future as the Vikings’ franchise quarterback.
With Mariota now off the board, the Vikings must turn their attention to other free-agent options, though many, such as Aaron Rodgers and Russell Wilson, are likely targeting starting jobs for Week 1.
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