During recent weeks, Aaron Rodgers was heavily linked to the Minnesota Vikings. However, the NFC North franchise now appears to be prioritizing a different option to compete with J.J. McCarthy for the starting quarterback job in 2026.
Rumors surrounding Rodgers’ potential departure from the Pittsburgh Steelers have cooled significantly. The veteran quarterback is reportedly preparing to return to Pittsburgh, leaving Minnesota with one fewer option in free agency.
With Rodgers seemingly off the table, the Vikings are moving forward with plans to create competition for McCarthy ahead of the 2026 NFL season. And now, a new name has emerged.
Report: Vikings and Anthony Richardson have mutual interest
On Thursday, Anthony Richardson received clarity about his future with the Indianapolis Colts. The quarterback was granted permission to seek a trade, and Minnesota quickly surfaced as a potential landing spot.
According to Cameron Wolfe of NFL Media, the Vikings and Richardson share “mutual interest” in joining forces for the 2026 season. If a deal materializes, Richardson would immediately compete with McCarthy for the QB1 role.
Rodgers had been mentioned as a possibility in recent weeks, but with the veteran expected to stay in Pittsburgh, Minnesota appears focused on younger — and potentially more affordable — alternatives.
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Richardson lost his starting job in 2025 after the Colts signed Daniel Jones, ironically a former Vikings quarterback. Now, the former first-round pick could get a fresh opportunity in Minnesota, where the organization is clearly seeking stronger competition at the position.
Will J.J. McCarthy be traded?
As things stand, the Vikings are expected to host a legitimate quarterback battle heading into 2026. McCarthy is still viewed as the frontrunner, but his grip on the starting job is far from secure.
The biggest concern surrounding McCarthy remains durability. Injuries have limited his availability, and if he struggles to stay healthy and perform consistently, trade speculation could intensify sooner rather than later.
