ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter is closely monitoring the Minnesota Vikings' quarterback situation as the NFL trade deadline nears. Schefter indicated on his podcast that the Vikings, currently 6-1 and in contention for a Super Bowl, may be looking to upgrade their quarterback position.
The team recently announced that Carson Wentz will start in place of an injured Kyler Murray. However, Murray's performance this season, even when healthy, has been a point of concern for the Vikings. Through six games, the former No. 1 overall pick has completed 100 of 154 passes for five touchdowns and three interceptions. He missed part of the season with a concussion.
The Vikings suffered their first loss of the season on Sunday, falling to the rival Lions. Following the game, star receiver Justin Jefferson reportedly left the locker room without speaking to the media, an apparent sign of frustration.
Schefter suggested that with a defense strong enough to contend for a championship, the team's offense and quarterback play will be crucial. "Especially when they have an all-world defense that’s good enough to win a Super Bowl where they need the QB to play well. Where they need the offense to produce," Schefter said.
Speculation has also turned to potential trade targets who have previously played for the Vikings. Daniel Jones, now with a struggling Colts team, is one name mentioned. Jones is returning from an Achilles tear and has been part of the Colts' 2-6 record this season. He briefly played for the Vikings at the end of the 2024 season after being benched by the Giants.
Kirk Cousins, who spent a significant period with the Vikings, is another possibility. While the Raiders are 4-4 and their No. 1 draft pick Fernando Mendoza has seen limited action, the California Post reported that the Raiders are open to taking trade calls for Cousins.
The Vikings' "Monday Night Football" matchup against the Bills could provide further clarity on whether the team will pursue a trade for a new quarterback.