If you’ve been attentive lately, you would have noticed two key phrases emerging from the leadership of the Minnesota Vikings as they navigate a significant shift in quarterbacks, transitioning from Kirk Cousins to a rookie they aim to draft soon.
Coach Kevin O’Connell stated last week during the annual NFL meeting, “We need another team to be complicit.”
Meanwhile, General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah remarked, “When we enter this draft, we have the flexibility to go either way.”
The Vikings are currently engaged in the pursuit of a willing team to facilitate a trade up in the draft, while also preparing for the possibility of not finding one and needing the flexibility to adjust their strategy accordingly. They are eyeing top prospects like Jayden Daniels, Drake Maye, J.J. McCarthy, or Caleb Williams, but realize they likely can’t secure them with their higher first-round pick at No. 11 overall.
Recent discussions during the league meeting revealed that the Vikings are actively pursuing two potential paths. On one hand, they are meticulously evaluating top prospects and structuring plans for the development of a rookie quarterback. On the other hand, they are preparing for scenarios where they may rely on Sam Darnold for the 2024 season and pivot to other options, such as drafting a quarterback with a later pick or looking ahead to the 2025 class.
The Vikings understand the need for strategic ambiguity in their public statements, knowing they cannot guarantee landing a desired quarterback prospect, despite acquiring additional draft picks. Adofo-Mensah emphasized their excitement about the flexibility offered by their draft positions, stressing that mock drafts can’t predict their final decisions.
In the interim, Adofo-Mensah has devised a comprehensive plan for evaluating top prospects through private workouts and visits. O’Connell, drawing on his experience, views pro days as valuable but believes true evaluation comes from personal interaction and on-field sessions.
O’Connell plans to engage quarterbacks in teaching sessions during visits to gauge their learning abilities and understanding of football concepts. He also values observing their interactions in community settings to assess their impact beyond the field.
The Vikings are implementing structural changes to prioritize quarterback development within their coaching staff. If unable to secure a trade, they still have the flexibility of the No. 23 overall pick. This adaptable approach defines their strategy for the foreseeable future.