
If Sam Darnold were to retire, the Minnesota Vikings would need to seriously evaluate their quarterback options for the future. Currently, the Vikings are in a position where they have Kirk Cousins as their starter, but his contract situation and age mean that Minnesota needs a long-term plan at the position. Here’s where they might look:
The most obvious and logical move would be to target a young quarterback in the NFL Draft. If the Vikings end up with a pick in the top half of the first round, they could explore selecting one of the top prospects, such as Caleb Williams (USC), Drake Maye (UNC), or Michael Penix Jr. (Washington), depending on their draft position. If they’re selecting later, they might look at a developmental prospect like Bo Nix (Oregon), J.J. McCarthy (Michigan), or Quinn Ewers (Texas).
The draft offers the opportunity to develop a quarterback under a relatively affordable rookie contract, aligning with a potential roster rebuild or retooling.
Should the Vikings choose a veteran approach, they could pursue free-agent quarterbacks to bridge the gap while planning for a long-term solution. Potential free-agent targets in 2025 could include quarterbacks like Ryan Tannehill, Jameis Winston, or even Baker Mayfield. While not franchise-defining options, they could provide stability if the Vikings don’t immediately land a young star.
Minnesota could look to acquire an established quarterback via trade. Teams with young, unproven quarterbacks or depth at the position might be willing to part with someone for draft capital. Players like Trey Lance (Dallas Cowboys backup) or Mac Jones (if his situation in New England doesn’t improve) could become intriguing options.
The Vikings could also assess the potential of younger quarterbacks already on their roster, such as Jaren Hall. While Hall was a late-round pick in 2023, he showed flashes of potential during preseason play. If given proper development time, Hall might surprise as a viable stopgap or even a long-term solution.
The Vikings’ decision at quarterback will depend heavily on their competitive outlook for the next few years. If they see a window for contention, they may prioritize acquiring a veteran with experience. However, if they’re preparing for a rebuild or transition, investing in a young quarterback through the draft makes the most sense. Either way, the post-Darnold/Cousins era will be pivotal for the franchise’s future trajectory.