Vikings Explore Veteran QB Options Amid Doubts Over J.J. McCarthy

Minnesota looks to bolster QB position after McCarthy's mixed rookie season performance

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The Minnesota Vikings are reportedly considering signing veteran quarterback Daniel Jones in free agency as they evaluate the future of their young starter J.J. McCarthy. McCarthy struggled in his rookie season, leading the team to explore more experienced options like Jones to potentially stabilize the position.

Why it matters

The Vikings' quarterback situation is a key factor in determining the team's offensive identity and competitiveness going forward. Bringing in a proven veteran like Jones could provide immediate stability, while continuing to develop McCarthy remains an option as the team assesses its long-term strategy at the position.

The details

J.J. McCarthy, the Vikings' 10th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, had a mixed rookie season, throwing for 1,632 yards, 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions while completing just 57.6% of his passes. Despite showing promise as a runner, McCarthy's inconsistent performance has led the Vikings to explore veteran free agent options, with Daniel Jones emerging as a potential target.

  • In the 2023 regular season, the Vikings finished with a 9-8 record.
  • McCarthy was selected 10th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft after leading the University of Michigan to a national championship.
  • McCarthy's rookie season was delayed by a preseason injury, forcing him to wait an entire year before making his regular-season debut.

The players

J.J. McCarthy

The Vikings' young quarterback who struggled in his rookie season, throwing for 1,632 yards, 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions while completing just 57.6% of his passes.

Daniel Jones

A veteran quarterback who has been linked to the Vikings in free agency. Jones has extensive NFL experience, boasting a career completion rate of 64.7%, 17,683 passing yards, 89 touchdowns, and 55 interceptions. He has also shown the ability to make plays with his legs, rushing for 2,343 yards and 20 touchdowns.

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What they’re saying

“The Colts are all the way in on Jones, especially after they traded away two first-round picks for Sauce Gardner at the trade deadline. He's coming off a torn Achilles, but expect Indianapolis to figure something out. Other suitors: Cardinals, Vikings.”

— Zachary Pereles, Sports Journalist (CBS Sports)

What’s next

The Vikings will continue to evaluate their quarterback options during the offseason, weighing the potential acquisition of a veteran free agent like Daniel Jones against the continued development of J.J. McCarthy.

The takeaway

The Vikings' quarterback situation is a critical factor in determining the team's offensive identity and long-term competitiveness. Bringing in an experienced signal-caller like Daniel Jones could provide immediate stability, while nurturing McCarthy's growth remains an option as the team assesses its best path forward at the position.