NFL News: Vikings part ways with JJ McCarthy’s teammate amid Kirk Cousins trade rumors

JJ McCarthy remains one of the most talked-about names this offseason, as rumors continue to swirl around the Minnesota Vikings. After several chapters linking Aaron Rodgers as a potential addition, veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins has now emerged as another option. Cousins is not expected to continue his career with the Atlanta Falcons in the 2025 NFL season.

McCarthy is aiming to bounce back from the extended injury that sidelined him last year and earn the starting quarterback job with the Vikings. The rumors surrounding Cousins could be seen as pressure from the franchise, which recently made a curious decision involving another player who had been in a similar situation to the former Michigan Wolverines standout.

It’s not a good news day for McCarthy. The potential arrival of a competitor at his position comes on top of the release of a former teammate who, like the young quarterback, spent all of 2024 sidelined with injury. The Vikings are making it clear they need physically ready players to face what’s ahead.

The player who leaves the Vikings

McCarthy’s now former teammate who is leaving the Vikings is none other than cornerback NaJee Thompson, who has been released by the Minnesota franchise with a “failed physical” designation. Thompson originally joined the team as an undrafted free agent in 2023.

NaJee Thompson and Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell

Thompson’s tenure with the Vikings includes appearances in 15 games during his rookie season, recording seven tackles and one fumble recovery. Just as his time with the team seemed promising, the 25-year-old cornerback struggled with injuries to his left knee and spent the entire 2024 season on the reserve list.

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NFL News: Falcons confirm final decision to trade Kirk Cousins to Steelers or another team as Aaron Rodgers is reluctant to sign with Pittsburgh

Will Cousins join the Vikings?

NFL insider Dianna Russini reported that Minnesota is one of three potential destinations for quarterback Kirk Cousins. The Vikings would be competing with the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Cleveland Browns to land the 37-year-old veteran, who is leaving the Falcons after losing the QB1 spot.