Free agent quarterback Aaron Rodgers signing with the Minnesota Vikings seemed like a real possibility until Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reported that the team was shutting down its pursuit and moving on.
That likely now leaves the team in the hands of J.J. McCarthy, who the Vikings selected with the No. 10 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft and sat behind Sam Darnold after needing surgery to repair a meniscus tear in August.
However, that leaves just two quarterbacks on the roster, with McCarthy and Brett Rypien, who combined have started just four games, and that's why Cody Benjamin of CBS Sports predicts Minnesota will sign Jameis Winston.
"Carson Wentz is another big-armed journeyman who makes sense here, especially given his Midwestern roots," Benjamin wrote. "Winston is a touch younger with a touch more recent starting experience, though, and Kevin O'Connell might like his fiery leadership in the same room as the still-growing J.J. McCarthy.
Through his 10-year career, where he's made one Pro Bowl, he has proved to at least be entertaining even if he does have the tendency to turn the ball over, throwing for a total of 24,225 yards, 154 touchdowns and 111 interceptions
Winston had his ups and downs in 2024 for the Cleveland Browns, appearing in 12 games with seven starts, completing 181-of-296 passes for 2,121 yards, 13 touchdowns, 12 interceptions and an 80.6 passer rating.
If this scenario did become a reality as well, it at least ensures that the Vikings would have a veteran quarterback option on the roster in case McCarthy isn't showing signs of being ready by Week 1.
