The Vikings wanted to move past the expensive Kirk Cousins era with cheaper options in 2024. Minnesota drafted J.J. McCarthy and signed Sam Darnold to be his insurance. As it turned out, Darnold was much-needed after McCarthy tore his meniscus last August, and the Vikings rode the former No. 3 overall pick to a postseason appearance.
Sure, it didn’t go anywhere and they were blown out 27-9 by the Rams in the Wild Card Round. Still, Minnesota proved that they can spend modestly at the quarterback position and win.
That’s what has CBS Sports’ Cody Benjamin hesitant to believe the Vikings would sign Aaron Rodgers in free agency, abandoning the principles that made their successful 2024 season happen.
“Unlike a lesser free agent, Rodgers’ profile would make him the new face of the team, effectively postponing any McCarthy growth until 2026. It’d be uncharacteristic for the forward-thinking Vikings, who drafted McCarthy and took a flyer on Sam Darnold in part to offset years of paying big money to an aging quarterback. In other words, Rodgers needs the Vikings more than they need him,” Benjamin wrote.
With that said, from a football standpoint, Benjamin believes there’s not a better fit for Rodgers.
“This would pretty much be a dream destination for Rodgers, from the elite coaching to fortified O-line to proven playmakers, including Justin Jefferson. Joining Minnesota also wouldn’t necessarily derail — just delay — the team’s long-term plans for J.J. McCarthy, who’s coming off knee surgeries anyway,” Benjamin wrote.
Rodgers’ free agent decision could drag on until the Vikings definitively back McCarthy and call off their pursuit of the 41-year-old. Reports say Rodgers could consider retirement if un-signed by Minnesota. Some believe there’s still mutual interest.
If the Vikings sign Carson Wentz, we’ll know Rodgers is off the table. That’d be the equivalent of backing McCarthy as QB1.
