Due to the largely unimpressive play of young quarterback J.J. McCarthy, the Minnesota Vikings fanbase should prepare themselves for yet another season of quarterback musical chairs that will link them to many of the top free agent veterans out there.
While the idea of a reunion with Daniel Jones, whom Minnesota signed following his release from the New York Giants last year, seemed improbable after his tremendous resurgence with the Indianapolis Colts, his recent Achilles injury has thrown his future with Shane Steichen in doubt.
Jones may end up returning to Indianapolis on a short-term deal, but ESPN's Dan Graziano believes the Vikings might be the place where Jones ends up. Graziano cited the path to playing time, the fact that Minnesota wanted him back last offseason, and his familiarity with the staff.
It would make sense for him to go back to Minnesota...and rehab there with a staff that knows him and wanted to retain him but couldn't guarantee him the starting job this past offseason," Graziano said. Either way, the idea of a lucrative, long-term contract extension in Indianapolis (or somewhere else) probably slides to the back burner in light of Jones' most recent season-ending injury."
Dan Graziano links the Minnesota Vikings to Daniel Jones after the quarterback's Achilles injury
Even if McCarthy manages to turn things around in a more permanent way, look for Minnesota to be at the front of the line when it comes to acquiring a veteran quarterback behind him. If they are done with Carson Wentz, no player on the market might be better for them than Jones.
The former No. 6 pick, who threw for 19 touchdowns against just eight interceptions this season, may not be fully healthy for the start of the season. The Vikings will likely not be deterred by that notion, as Jones' performance in Steichen's offense could translate over to what O'Connell runs.
If this hypothetical signing comes to fruition, Jones will embark upon the same sort of odyssey he was on during the 2024 season. By joining a well-regarded offensive mind in O'Connell, Jones can once again rehabilitate his value by showing the league the Achillies injury did not impact his overall style of play.
Jones returning to the Colts remains the most likely scenario due to their desperation for talent at the position. However, if Indy decides to reboot under center once again, Minnesota stands out as the clear No. 1 spot for his services.