As NFL free agency looms, the Minnesota Vikings find themselves at the heart of the quarterback carousel - and for once, that might be a good thing.
According to league insider Jeremy Fowler, Minnesota is shaping up to be one of the more attractive landing spots for veteran quarterbacks this offseason. And it’s not hard to see why. With superstar wideout Justin Jefferson anchoring the offense, Kevin O’Connell calling plays, and a roster that’s not far off from playoff contention, the Vikings have the kind of infrastructure that appeals to experienced signal-callers looking for a fresh start or a final push.
So, who’s on the radar?
Kyler Murray: The Wild Card
Kyler Murray’s name has been floated as a potential option, and it’s a fascinating one. The former No. 1 overall pick is still under contract with the Arizona Cardinals, but a hefty $19.5 million bonus is due on March 16 - the fifth day of the new league year - which puts the clock on Arizona to make a decision.
If the Cardinals can’t find a trade partner (and let’s be honest, that contract isn’t exactly team-friendly), there’s a real chance Murray could be released. Should that happen, the Vikings would have to take a long look.
Murray’s dual-threat ability, when healthy, is game-changing. Pairing that kind of athleticism with Jefferson and O’Connell’s offensive scheme?
That’s the kind of upside that could make the NFC North very interesting, very quickly.
Geno Smith: Veteran Stability
Geno Smith was also mentioned by Fowler, and while his name might not spark the same excitement as Murray’s, it’s worth a pause. Smith has revitalized his career in Seattle, showing poise, accuracy, and leadership.
He’s not flashy, but he’s steady - and sometimes, steady is what a team with playmakers already in place needs. Whether Smith becomes a serious option for Minnesota remains to be seen, but he’s clearly on the radar.
Tua Tagovailoa: A Risk the Vikings Can’t Afford
Then there’s the situation in Miami. Tua Tagovailoa was benched for the final three games of the 2025 season, and the Dolphins appear ready to move on.
On paper, a former top-five pick hitting the market might sound intriguing. But Tua’s injury history - particularly his multiple concussions - combined with inconsistent play, makes him a tough sell.
The Vikings can’t afford to roll the dice on a quarterback who may not be able to stay on the field, especially with the rest of the roster poised to compete.
Derek Carr: A Comeback Story?
Another name to watch is Derek Carr. The former Raiders and Saints quarterback stepped away from the game before the 2025 season, but the Saints still hold his rights if he chooses to return. With New Orleans seemingly committed to Tyler Shough, Carr could be available at a reasonable cost.
Carr’s experience and leadership would be valuable in a locker room that’s looking to take the next step. He’s not a long-term answer, but as a bridge quarterback - especially if the Vikings are eyeing a rookie in the draft - he could be a solid fit.
The Usual Suspects: Cousins and Rodgers
Of course, no Vikings offseason would be complete without a few familiar names popping up. A Kirk Cousins reunion is still on the table, and until Aaron Rodgers officially makes a decision about his future, the rumor mill will keep churning. Whether either scenario is realistic or just offseason noise remains to be seen.
Bottom Line
The Vikings are in a unique position. They’re not rebuilding, but they’re not quite contenders either - at least not without stability under center.
With a strong supporting cast already in place, Minnesota could be a quarterback away from making real noise in the NFC. And judging by the early chatter, plenty of quarterbacks are eyeing the Twin Cities as a potential new home.
Now it’s up to the front office to find the right fit.