The Minnesota Vikings have made a decisive call regarding free agent quarterback Aaron Rodgers, firmly committing to J.J. McCarthy as their starter for the upcoming season. NFL insider Tom Pelissero broke the news, emphasizing that the Vikings have fielded multiple trade inquiries about McCarthy but are sticking with their first-round pick from the 2024 draft.
While the Vikings are keeping the door open for a veteran quarterback addition, they have clearly stated they are not pursuing Rodgers at this time. McCarthy will head into the offseason as the team’s QB1, a role he’s set to embrace after a significant investment from the franchise.
Despite swirling rumors linking Minnesota to the 10-time Pro Bowler and four-time MVP, it seems the Vikings are content with their young talent. Rodgers, fresh off a challenging 2024 season with the New York Jets, which culminated in a disappointing 5-12 record, is now looking at other potential landing spots. His numbers were respectable—completing 63 percent of his passes for 3,897 yards, along with 28 touchdowns—but insufficient to turn the Jets’ fortunes around.
As free agency unfolds, Rodgers finds himself focused on the Pittsburgh Steelers and the New York Giants in his search for a new team. The Steelers, notably, have expressed a sense of optimism about their chances of acquiring the veteran quarterback. NFL reporter Josina Anderson highlighted this sentiment, relaying that a source reported the Steelers “feel like they’re getting closer” to resolving their quarterback situation, suggesting that negotiations on Rodgers might be gaining traction.
For now, the Vikings are focusing on clearing a path for McCarthy while keeping an eye on the market for veteran quarterbacks. It’s a pivotal moment for the franchise as they aim to shape their future, all while the specter of Rodgers looms in the background, searching for the right opportunity to rekindle his career.
