The Minnesota Vikings may be eyeing a major shakeup at quarterback heading into 2026, and if the latest buzz is to be believed, they're thinking big-Joe Burrow big.
According to a report, the Vikings are preparing to make a blockbuster offer to the Cincinnati Bengals for Burrow. The proposed deal?
J.J. McCarthy, edge rusher Jonathan Greenard, and not one, but two first-round picks.
That’s a serious package, signaling that Minnesota isn’t looking to rebuild-they’re aiming to reload and get right back into the playoff mix.
Let’s break this down. McCarthy, the Vikings’ first-round pick in 2025, didn’t quite live up to expectations in his rookie season.
While it’s far too early to write off a young quarterback, the front office clearly isn’t interested in waiting around for development if there’s a chance to land a proven franchise QB. And Burrow, despite the Bengals’ recent struggles, is still one of the top signal-callers in the league when healthy.
The inclusion of Greenard in the reported offer adds even more weight. He was one of Minnesota’s more productive pass rushers in 2025, and pairing him with two first-rounders shows just how serious the Vikings are about this pursuit. They’re not just kicking the tires-they’re looking to make a statement.
Now, let’s talk about the other side of this equation. The Bengals have been under pressure over the past couple of seasons.
With no playoff wins to show for it lately and a lack of consistent protection for Burrow, questions have swirled about how long this marriage can last. Still, trading away a quarterback of Burrow’s caliber is a monumental decision, and there’s no indication Cincinnati is ready to pull that trigger.
If the Bengals say no-and that’s the likely outcome-the Vikings reportedly have a Plan B: bringing back Kirk Cousins. Cousins, of course, is a familiar face in Minnesota, and while he may not have the ceiling of Burrow, he brings experience, leadership, and a steady hand. In a quarterback room that currently lacks a sure thing, that could be exactly what the Vikings need.
Bottom line: Minnesota isn’t content to sit back and hope things click in 2026. Whether it’s Burrow, Cousins, or another veteran, they’re clearly intent on upgrading the quarterback position and making a serious push in the NFC. McCarthy may still have potential, but the Vikings are signaling that they’re ready to win now-and they’re willing to pay the price to do it.