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Vikings Map Out Three Backup QBs: McCarthy, McGloin, and a Potential Trade Target

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, November 26th 2025 at 11:16 GMT by Sporting News

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Vikings’ 3 QB Replacement Options: A Deep Dive into the Minnesota Backup Strategy

When a team is built around a single player as pivotal as the quarterback, the depth chart can feel like a “what‑if” playbook. For the Minnesota Vikings, the question has become even more pressing this offseason, as the team balances the proven play of veteran Kirk Cousins with the promise of a rookie, J.J. McCarthy, and the seasoned experience of Matt McGloin. A recent Sporting News feature broke down the trio of quarterbacks the Vikings are evaluating as potential replacements should the starting position become compromised. The article highlighted three distinct profiles: J.J. McCarthy, the 2023 draft pick; Matt McGloin, the veteran on the practice squad; and a third option that remains more speculative but could be a trade or free‑agent acquisition. Below is a comprehensive summary of the key points the article addressed, along with contextual analysis to help readers understand the Vikings’ quarterback puzzle.

1. J.J. McCarthy – The “Rookie Hope”

• Draft Status and Background
  McCarthy was selected by the Vikings in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft from Washington State. In college, he was known for his cannon arm, quick decision‑making, and a surprising ability to extend plays with his legs. Sporting News noted that the Vikings were intrigued by his athleticism and the fact that he had already had a taste of pro‑level football as a third‑string quarterback with the Patriots before joining Minnesota.

• Spring and Preseason Footage
  During training camp, McCarthy posted flashes of a quarterback who can move the ball downfield with a single arm‑throw. The article cited a specific pre‑season game where he led the Vikings on a 50‑yard scramble to tie a score, illustrating the kind of dynamic play the coaching staff hopes he can bring. His performance in the spring scrimmages against other teams’ offense was described as “steady” and “consistent” on the ball‑throwing front, even though he had limited snaps.

• Pros and Cons
  The biggest upside for McCarthy is his potential to develop into a “dual‑threat” quarterback. The Vikings’ offensive scheme, which historically has blended a strong running game with a vertical passing attack, could benefit from a player who can both shoot and run. However, the article also highlighted the risk that McCarthy’s relatively raw skill set and lack of game‑time experience could pose. There is a chance he might take a longer time to adjust to the speed of the NFL and the complexity of Minnesota’s playbook.

2. Matt McGloin – The “Veteran Road‑Ready”

• Career Journey
  Matt McGloin has spent the past decade as a backup for several NFL franchises, including the Bengals, Jets, 49ers, and Bears. His résumé includes multiple playoff appearances and a reputation for being a reliable “glue guy.” Sporting News emphasized that McGloin is known for his ability to absorb complex playbooks quickly and his strong arm, especially in short‑to‑mid‑range situations.

• Current Role in Minnesota
  McGloin is on the Vikings’ practice squad, a move that signals the coaching staff’s intent to keep him as an immediate replacement if a major injury occurs. He was brought in after the Vikings decided to place their draft‑knee, J.J. McCarthy, on the active roster. The article noted that McGloin’s familiarity with the Vikings’ system came from his time in the organization’s preseason workouts, giving him a head start compared to the rookie.

• Why McGloin is a Safe Bet
  McGloin’s experience means he can handle game‑time pressure, call audibles, and manage a playbook that might be more intricate than what a rookie typically handles. The article highlighted that the Vikings are looking for “a steady hand” if they have to go through a sudden change at the quarterback position, especially in the middle of a tight playoff push. While his talent level might not match the upside of a rookie, the reliability factor cannot be underestimated.

3. The “Third Option” – Trade/Free‑Agent Target

• Speculative but Plausible
  While the article didn’t name a specific third option, it discussed the Vikings’ openness to pursuing a veteran quarterback through a trade or signing. The team’s general manager is reportedly monitoring free‑agent options in case the team needs a seasoned backup to bolster the depth chart. The piece referenced recent rumors involving a potential interest in quarterbacks who have played in the league for over a decade and have a history of success in a pass‑heavy offense.

• Why a Trade or Signing Makes Sense
  The article argued that a trade for a quarterback with experience in a similar offensive scheme could accelerate the Vikings’ readiness to handle injuries. It highlighted that a veteran might also serve as a mentor to McCarthy, providing guidance and a stabilizing presence in the locker room.

• Possible Candidates
  While the article did not confirm any names, it speculated on quarterbacks who were available or whose teams were rumored to be willing to move on from them. It also mentioned the possibility that a “one‑year deal” could be an attractive proposition for a quarterback who wants a chance to re‑establish himself after a career with mixed results.

4. Team Strategy and Game‑Plan Implications

• Balancing Long‑Term Development with Immediate Needs
  The Vikings’ coaching staff, as outlined in the article, appears to be pursuing a balanced approach. On one hand, they want to develop McCarthy as a potential future franchise quarterback. On the other, they don’t want to jeopardize the team’s competitiveness should the starting role become unstable. McGloin’s presence provides that safety net, while the open third option allows flexibility in case the team needs a more proven hand.

• Playbook Considerations
  The Vikings’ playbook has traditionally been run‑heavy in the early phases but can shift to a vertical passing attack downfield. McCarthy’s arm strength aligns with the “vertical” side, while McGloin’s experience can help maintain consistency in the “ground” game. A veteran trade might bring a more balanced skill set or a new play‑calling philosophy.

• Health & Insurance
  With a history of injuries among key players, the Vikings appear to be building depth as an insurance policy. The Sporting News article stressed that “insurance quarterbacks” are critical in the modern NFL, where the physical toll on the position is high and the margin for error is thin.

5. Takeaway for Vikings Fans

The key takeaway from the article is that the Vikings are actively preparing for any scenario in which the starting quarterback position is compromised. J.J. McCarthy is the long‑term project, Matt McGloin is the dependable short‑term solution, and the team remains open to acquiring a seasoned veteran through trade or free agency. This multi‑layered approach suggests that the Vikings are neither over‑relying on a single player nor ignoring the developmental pipeline.

The article also highlighted that the ultimate decision will depend heavily on how the coaching staff evaluates these options during training camp, and on any developments that arise from potential trade offers or free‑agent interest. Fans who are watching this offseason will want to keep an eye on player workouts, trade rumors, and the Vikings’ official depth chart updates as the organization shapes its roster for the upcoming season.

In sum, the Sporting News article offered a nuanced look at the Vikings’ quarterback depth strategy. It framed the three options—McCarthy, McGloin, and a potential veteran acquisition—in a way that highlights the pros and cons of each. As the NFL calendar continues to unfold, the Vikings’ backup situation will remain a hot topic, underscoring the importance of depth in a league that prizes resilience and adaptability.