Aaron Rodgers‘ saga seems to have no end during the 2025 NFL offseason. The Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Giants appear to be the most likely teams to acquire the 42-year-old quarterback, but a comment from JJ McCarthy could bring the Minnesota Vikings back into the conversation.
Days ago, Minnesota confirmed McCarthy as one of the quarterbacks to be considered for the upcoming season. However, this confirmation does not rule out other potential interests the franchise may have, such as the possible addition of free agent Rodgers.
McCarthy suffered a knee injury during his rookie season in 2024. In November, he underwent surgery to repair a meniscus tear in his right knee, which kept him out for the remainder of the season. The young quarterback has made a bold statement about his chances for the upcoming campaign.
McCarthy’s message about his starting role in 2025
“Vikings haven’t told me I’m the starter. I’m happy they didn’t because I try to earn it every single day. I never want that to be given to me. It’s such a privilege and opportunity to give me that chance and I’m just gonna make the most of it every single day,” McCarthy said in an interview on Up and Adams. What’s unique about this statement is that it brings attention back to Rodgers’ situation.
J.J. McCarthy #9 of the Minnesota Vikings warms up before the preseason game against the Las Vegas Raiders at U.S. Bank Stadium on August 10, 2024 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Could Rodgers join the Vikings?
Various sources, including NFL insider Mike Florio, have suggested that the Vikings could reconsider signing Rodgers later in the preseason. The interest stems from an emergency plan in case McCarthy doesn’t meet the requirements to be the starter and his situation becomes more complicated.
see also
NFL News: Report confirms Vikings were seriously considering signing Aaron Rodgers to compete with J.J. McCarthy
What are the Vikings’ plans for McCarthy?
Despite considering Rodgers in case of an emergency, the Vikings would have full confidence in McCarthy. “Minnesota is comfortable enough with McCarthy to risk Rodgers signing with the New York Giants or Pittsburgh Steelers, or simply retiring. The Vikings’ moves in the last couple of months indicate they strongly believe in McCarthy’s trajectory,” said NFL insider Alec Lewis from The Athletic.
