7 other backup quarterback options for the Vikings to consider for 2022

Cam Newton

• Current Status: Free agent

After you’ve finished rolling your eyes as far back into your head as they can go, just remember what new Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell has emphasized multiple times since he joined the organization. O’Connell has referenced the “illusion of complexity” on numerous occasions during the last few months when talking about Minnesota’s plans on offense and defense.

Cam Newton is likely done as a starter in the NFL, but that doesn’t mean he has nothing left to offer a team. With Newton, the Vikings would not only be upgrading their No. 2 quarterback spot, but they could also use the former MVP in various sub-packages, especially near the goal line, to create that illusion of complexity that O’Connell wants out on the field.

Some might be worried that Newton has too high of a profile to come in and be a backup for Minnesota. But if he were to sign with the Vikings, he would already know it wouldn’t be to come in and compete with Kirk Cousins to be the team’s starting quarterback.

Minnesota’s players have been raving about how the vibe is much more relaxed and fun since O’Connell took over as the team’s head coach this year. So if that’s the case, then Newton and his jovial personality would fit right in with the Vikings.