Minnesota Vikings options at quarterback next season just got more interesting

We know the Minnesota Vikings are going to bring in competition at quarterback this offseason, but who they bring in is still up in the air. Head coach Kevin O'Connell was honest about it during his end-of-season press conference.

“I absolutely want a competitive situation,” said O’Connell. “Obviously, J.J. [McCarthy] is going to be a major, major emphasis for our staff and our team and me personally, and we’ll figure out what that looks like as we navigate the early part of this offseason when it comes to managing the roster.

“I think ultimately, we’ve got to decide how to not only continue J.J.’s progression, allow him to continue to ascend as a young player, 22-years-old with 10 starts, but at the same time, like I said, I think the competition in that room will only enhance our entire team.”

Derek Carr becomes intriguing option for Minnesota Vikings

The top quarterback option for the Vikings will likely be Kirk Cousins of the Atlanta Falcons. He is going to be released before the start of the league year. He has familiarity with the offense and most of the players on it. Considering he is now a capable backup type quarterback, it makes sense for both sides.

The Vikings will likely have competition for Cousins, including the Falcons who could try to re-sign him to a different contract with Michael Penix Jr.'s torn ACL likely causing him to miss time. If they want another quarterback on a similar level to Cousins, they may choose to pivot to former New Orleans Saints and Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Derek Carr.

The Insiders on NFL Network reported that Carr may consider coming out of retirement with the right situation.

"Carr and his brother David have joked a few times on their Home Grown podcast about a return to the Raiders, especially since Klint Kubiak, Derek's offensive coordinator with the Saints in 2024 and the current OC for the Seahawks, is slated to accept the team’s head-coaching job after today's Super Bowl. But the Raiders hold the No. 1 overall pick in April's NFL Draft and are expected to use it on Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza.

"Carr doesn't seem to be actively chasing a return to the NFL. He's indicated he has enjoyed spending time with family and taking on various projects. But he surely knows the interest is there and sources have said the right situation and coaching staff could lure Carr back onto the field."