Each year, the NFL trade deadline brings forth a flurry of rumors regarding deals that are unlikely to happen. This season, the Minnesota Vikings have found themselves caught up in the excitement.
The trade deadline is set for November 5, and the Vikings’ strong start has positioned them as potential buyers if they decide to pursue trades. Conversations about possible targets have included cornerbacks and offensive linemen.
However, chatter surrounding the quarterback position has been minimal.
That said, there have been rumors regarding the Vikings’ interest in Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford. “I’ve been getting a lot of questions about the Matthew Stafford-to-the-Vikings rumors,” reported Ben Goessling of The Star Tribune on X on October 23. “A source indicated there’s absolutely no truth to the notion that the Vikings are trying to trade for him.”
Doesn't matter Ben. Someone tweeted it. So it must be true. https://t.co/40fOzEodW1
— Peter Schrager (@PSchrags) October 23, 2024
The rumor gained momentum on social media, prompting a response from former NFL quarterback Chase Daniel on X, who suggested that Stafford could be traded, but to the Miami Dolphins instead. Daniel also expressed his skepticism about the rumor.
Importantly, the Vikings could influence the Rams’ trade deadline strategy with a victory in Thursday Night Football as the Week 8 schedule begins. This game could also serve as an opportunity for Stafford to showcase his abilities as a potential candidate for the Vikings’ starting quarterback position.
Sam Darnold’s Play Opened Door for Vikings Trade Rumors
Darnold, 27, started the season strong, leading the NFL in touchdown passes during the first four weeks of 2024. However, he has only managed to throw one touchdown pass in his last ten quarters of play.
Additionally, Darnold has thrown interceptions in three consecutive games and five out of six this season. He has taken four or more sacks in three of his last four games and has one game where he was sacked just once.
Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell expressed confidence in Darnold before the season began. However, O’Connell has recently echoed concerns about turnovers and negative plays, reminiscent of his comments after games last season.
After starter Kirk Cousins suffered a torn Achilles in Week 8, the Vikings had to rely on three different quarterbacks. They were 4-4 at that time but ended the season 7-10, missing the playoffs for the third time in four years.
O’Connell was also the Rams’ offensive coordinator during their Super Bowl run in 2021.
Stafford, 36, has completed 66.7% of his passes for 1,392 yards, along with three touchdowns and four interceptions for the 2-4 Rams.
As the No. 1 overall pick in the 2009 Draft by the Detroit Lions, Stafford is a two-time Pro Bowler and the 2011 Comeback Player of the Year. He is currently in the second year of a four-year, $160 million contract.
However, Stafford remaining with the Vikings beyond the 2024 season doesn’t align with their plans either.
Vikings Have QB of Future Waiting in Wings
Darnold is playing on a one-year, $10 million contract and will become a free agent after this season. This situation might be acceptable for the Vikings unless they achieve a Super Bowl or at least a deep playoff run.
The Vikings selected their quarterback of the future in the first round of the 2024 draft, choosing J.J. McCarthy with the No. 10 overall pick, which they traded up to acquire. O’Connell has already labeled McCarthy as the organization’s “future.”
Unfortunately, McCarthy suffered an MCL tear during his first preseason game and underwent surgery, which ended his season and eliminated any potential competition for Darnold for the starting role. However, he is expected to be ready for the start of next season.
With the solid infrastructure the Vikings have in place, they could hand over the reins to McCarthy in 2025.
While the Vikings may not mind losing Darnold, acquiring Stafford and his contract could present a new set of challenges for the team’s front office.
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