NFL

NFL News: Kevin O’Connell and Vikings could make shocking trade for star quarterback to put pressure on J.J. McCarthy

The Minnesota Vikings might be ready to shake things up at quarterback. With rookie J.J. McCarthy still finding his footing, head coach Kevin O'Connell is reportedly considering a bold trade for a proven star signal-caller.

Kevin O'Connell head coach of the Minnesota Vikings
© Stacy Revere/Getty ImagesKevin O'Connell head coach of the Minnesota Vikings

The Minnesota Vikings are officially starting J.J. McCarthy, their promising young quarterback, but early reports suggest the rookie’s performance is falling short of expectations.

Advertisement

Insiders like Dianna Russini and talk show host Colin Cowherd are raising eyebrows over McCarthy’s shaky start, stirring whispers that Minnesota might be ready to pull the trigger on a blockbuster trade with the Atlanta Falcons for veteran Kirk Cousins.

McCarthy’s journey hasn’t been smooth. The former University of Michigan star missed his entire rookie season after a knee injury sidelined him, delaying his debut on the NFL stage. Now, stepping into the spotlight, the pressure is mounting with Super Bowl expectations for the Vikings.

Advertisement

Will Vikings trade for Kirk Cousins?

The Minnesota Vikings could consider a trade for Kirk Cousins if J.J. McCarthy doesn’t improve in the preseason. According to a report by Ben Goessling, the possibility of that happening is real.

“I don’t think it’s impossible. I’ve had enough conversations on both sides of this. There’s still a good relationship there. I would put it that way. There’s still a very good relationship between Kirk Cousins and Kevin O’Connell. They’re still friends. They’re still in contact at times. I think people still feel good about working together. The questions I would have. Is he healthy? I think that’s the biggest one. How do you figure out the money? How do you fit that in the locker room? It’s not his team anymore. I think everybody would have to be on the same page about what roles are and what expectations are. That would be the biggest hurdle, and I think the optics of that would be tricky as well because of J.J. McCarthy’s struggles.”

Advertisement
Aaron Rodgers hilariously suggests NFL had special intel when creating Steelers’ revenge tour schedule for him against Jets, Packers, Bears and Vikings

see also

The Vikings’ offense has struggled to maintain momentum in training camp, and fans are already debating whether McCarthy is ready to carry the franchise forward. That’s where Kirk Cousins comes into play.

Will Kirk Cousins return to Vikings?

The Falcons, looking to shake things up after a middling season, have reportedly expressed interest in dealing Kirk Cousins as they have found their franchise quarterback in Michael Penix Jr. A trade would reunite Cousins with Minnesota, where he’s had some of his best NFL years, providing a proven presence under center.

Advertisement

While the Vikings had high hopes for McCarthy to be their franchise quarterback, the reality of the NFL’s grind is sinking in fast. The team’s leadership faces a tough choice: double down on their young QB or bring back a familiar veteran who can steady the ship and buy time for McCarthy’s development. It’s important to remember this is a Super Bowl caliber roster built for win now mode.

As training camps heat up and the preseason games unfold, all eyes will be on the Vikings’ quarterback room. Will McCarthy rise to the occasion and silence the doubters, or is the Kirk Cousins trade rumor about to become headline news? One thing is clear. The Vikings’ quarterback saga is far from over, and it’s shaping up to be one of the most intriguing storylines in the NFL this season.

Advertisement

Survey

Should the Vikings trade for Kirk Cousins?

already voted 0 people

ALSO READ
Former teammate dismisses Kirk Cousins’ impact on Falcons’ offense
NFL

Former teammate dismisses Kirk Cousins’ impact on Falcons’ offense

Raheem Morris mentions big difference between Kirk Cousins, Michael Penix Jr.
NFL

Raheem Morris mentions big difference between Kirk Cousins, Michael Penix Jr.

Michael Penix Jr. injured: Who’s the backup on the Falcons’ QB depth chart?
NFL

Michael Penix Jr. injured: Who’s the backup on the Falcons’ QB depth chart?

Vikings linked with 3 veteran QBs as Wentz's injury leaves gap behind McCarthy
NFL

Vikings linked with 3 veteran QBs as Wentz's injury leaves gap behind McCarthy

Better Collective Logo