Overview
- Head coach Kevin O’Connell and GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah declined to anoint McCarthy the 2026 starter, stressing a deeper, competitive quarterback room.
- ESPN’s Kevin Seifert reported he found no one in Minnesota’s orbit willing to rule out pursuing an elite starter, with names like Joe Burrow or Lamar Jackson cited as examples.
- Ian Rapoport reported Aaron Rodgers is unlikely to return to Pittsburgh after Mike Tomlin’s exit, renewing speculation he could be a veteran option if the Vikings look short term.
- Alec Lewis of The Athletic wrote that “nothing is off the table,” including a trade for Kyler Murray, though contract size and acquisition cost were flagged as hurdles.
- Financial realities loom large, with multiple outlets noting Minnesota is roughly $30–40 million over the cap and that any true blockbuster would require significant draft capital.