Why Veteran QBs Are Eyeing the Vikings in 2026

ESPN's Jeremy Fowler says that players like Kyler Murray and Geno Smith might prefer a move to the Vikings because of its system.

Why Veteran QBs Are Eyeing the Vikings in 2026

Kevin O'Connell and Kyler Murray inside the circle (Image via IMAGO)

In Short
  • Veteran quarterbacks are interested in joining the Minnesota Vikings due to Kevin O'Connell's effective system.
  • Kyler Murray and Geno Smith are potential candidates for the Vikings as they seek a new quarterback in 2026.
  • Aaron Rodgers has expressed interest in playing for the Vikings, potentially returning to the NFC North.

Quarterbacks are attracted to the Minnesota Vikings thanks to Kevin O’Connell‘s QB-friendly system, designed to bring out the best in them. So, it’s no surprise that veteran players, aiming to bow out on a high note, want to play in Minnesota in 2026.

O’Connell helped Sam Darnold turn his career around after he bounced around a few different teams. Darnold led the Vikings to a 14-3 season and an appearance in the wild-card round. However, O’Connell and the Vikings’ front office picked their 2024 first-round draft pick, JJ McCarthy, over Darnold as their possible quarterback of the future.

It turned out to be the wrong move. Despite starting the season with a win, there were clear signs that he wasn’t ready to be QB1 in the NFL. After a string of bad results, O’Connell benched McCarthy. The Vikings went 8-9.

McCarthy is unlikely to start in 2026, prompting pundits to link them with other names. Jeremy Fowler of ESPN named a couple during his recent appearance on NFL Live. Fowler believes that Kyler Murray could be available in the coming weeks if the new Arizona regime moves in a different direction.

My sense right now, from asking around, is all the top quarterbacks that will be, or could be, available, Kyler Murray [& Geno Smith] this is the place they want to go. It is Minnesota.

Fowler declared (H/T: Sports Illustrated)

Minnesota attracts quarterbacks largely because of Justin Jefferson, who, even in a down year, is still considered the best wide receiver in football. Murray might benefit from a move to the Twin Cities and earn a second paycheck. However, it’s his first contract that could hinder his aspirations.

How they [Arizona] want to split up the money to facilitate that $37 million in guarantees that he is owed. If they can do that, I think they’ll move on.

Fowler quipped

Aside from Murray, another name that has been linked with the Vikings recently is Geno Smith. The veteran signed with the Raiders last year after a successful stint in Seattle. However, Smith struggled to cope with the daunting environment of the AFC West. The Raiders finished 4-13 and are more than likely to release Smith.

Is Aaron Rodgers back on the Vikings radar?

Aaron Rodgers is also part of the conversation. Rodgers wanted to be the Vikings quarterback last year, before O’Connell closed the doors. The four-time NFL MVP is coming off a 10-7 season in Pittsburgh.

Why Veteran QBs Are Eyeing the Vikings in 2026
Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell (Image via IMAGO)

FOX Sports presenter Colin Cowherd urged the Vikings to make Rodgers their quarterback as soon as possible.

The Vikings are ready to win now with their personnel. I would go get Aaron Rodgers. Aaron, will you be my SKOL-mate? I think it works… Minnesota has good players and an excellent head coach. Minnesota has an elite defensive coordinator. By the way, Chicago [Bears] is getting better. Green Bay [Packers] is improving. The [Detroit] Lions solve their offensive coordinator issues. You could be in fourth place very quickly with another J.J. McCarthy injury. I’d go get Aaron.

Colin Cowherd said

Unless the Steelers decide to extend his stay, it’s entirely possible Rodgers could find himself heading back to the NFC North, of which he was a part for more than 15 years of his NFL career. Rodgers will follow in his predecessor, Brett Favre‘s footsteps and complete the cycle by donning the Minnesota purple.

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