What’s Next at Quarterback for the Vikings? Options Emerging as J.J. McCarthy Struggles to Cement Starting Role
As the 2025 season winds down, the Minnesota Vikings find themselves staring down a familiar but crucial question: who’s going to be under center next year?
Rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy has had his moments, no doubt.
There have been flashes of the talent that made him a first-round pick. But flashes aren’t enough in the NFL - not when the bad outweighs the good, and consistency remains elusive.
If McCarthy doesn’t show significant growth over the final stretch of the season, Minnesota will have little choice but to bring in a veteran presence to push - or potentially replace - him in 2026.
And with the team projected to be about $35 million over the salary cap heading into the offseason, don’t expect a big-name splash. The Vikings will need to get creative - and cost-effective - when it comes to finding a quarterback who can compete with McCarthy in camp.
Bridge QB Options: Low-Cost, High-Need
That’s where names like Tanner McKee (Eagles), Spencer Rattler (Saints), and Mac Jones (49ers) enter the conversation. These aren’t headline-grabbers, but they’re realistic options considering Minnesota’s financial constraints. The goal isn’t to find the next franchise savior - it’s to find a steady hand who can either push McCarthy to take the next step or hold things down while the team figures out its long-term plan.
Among the three, Mac Jones stands out as the most proven commodity. After a rocky 2024, Jones has bounced back in 2025 with a solid campaign as Brock Purdy’s fill-in in San Francisco. In eight starts, he’s completed 66.5% of his passes for 1,859 yards, 13 touchdowns, and six interceptions - a respectable stat line that suggests he still has starter-level capability.
What makes Jones even more appealing is his contract. He’s set to carry a cap hit of just $2.2 million in 2026, making him a budget-friendly option for a team that’s going to be counting every dollar.
The 49ers may be hesitant to give up valuable depth at quarterback, especially given how important that position is in today’s league. But with Jones reestablishing his value, San Francisco could command a Day 2 draft pick in return - a price Minnesota might be willing to pay if they believe he can stabilize the position.
What About Rattler and McKee?
Then there are the less-tested options. Spencer Rattler has had a decent sample size - 14 starts - but the results haven’t inspired much confidence. He’s struggled to find rhythm or consistency, and it’s hard to see him as anything more than a developmental backup at this stage.
Tanner McKee, on the other hand, is more of a wild card. He’s only made one start, but it was a promising one.
In Week 18 last season, McKee completed 27-of-41 passes for 269 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions. That kind of performance, even in a small sample size, is enough to turn heads - especially for a team in Minnesota’s position, where upside at a low cost is a valuable commodity.
If the choice comes down to McKee or Rattler, McKee’s potential ceiling and clean performance in his lone start give him the edge. He’s still a mystery box, but mystery can be intriguing - especially when the known quantity hasn’t moved the needle.
A Pivotal Offseason Ahead
The Vikings have talent across the roster. There’s depth on both sides of the ball, and the foundation of a competitive team is in place. But without stability at quarterback, it’s tough to make real noise in the NFC.
This offseason won’t be about swinging for the fences - it’ll be about finding a quarterback who can keep the offense on schedule, avoid mistakes, and give the team a chance to win while McCarthy continues to develop - or while the front office evaluates whether he’s the guy.
Mac Jones looks like the most logical target. He brings experience, poise, and a proven ability to operate within a structured offense. But if the price gets too steep, McKee might be the next-best bet - a low-cost gamble with some upside.
One thing’s clear: Minnesota can’t afford to go into 2026 without a plan. Whether it’s McCarthy taking a leap or a veteran stepping in to guide the ship, the Vikings need answers at quarterback - and soon.