The Minnesota Vikings have an fascinating determination to make on the quarterback place this offseason.

Kirk Cousins is entering free agency, and Minnesota holds the 11th overall pick, which very effectively might be used on a QB. Total, the Vikings have 5 paths that they will take to search out their subsequent QB. Here’s a have a look at every of them.

Re-Signal Kirk Cousins to Lengthy-Time period Deal

It could definitely be a dangerous proposition, however the Vikings theoretically might resolve that they need Cousins as their quarterback for the following three to 4 years. Earlier than his Achilles injury, Cousins was taking part in among the finest soccer of his profession even with out Justin Jefferson within the lineup.

There may be additionally the likelihood that Minnesota merely isn’t wowed by any of the draft prospects on the place (particularly these accessible at eleventh general) this spring to the purpose the place they will warrant a range.

Draft a Starter

Kwesi Adofo-Mensah said throughout the end-of-season press convention that this can be a “big offseason” for the Vikings. Minnesota might make no greater determination this offseason than to draft a QB within the first spherical (notably by way of a commerce up the draft board), let Kirk Cousins go, and instantly throw stated rookie into the beginning lineup. This could instantly transfer us into the following period of Vikings soccer

There are many beginning choices on this spring’s draft, particularly close to the highest. So as to pull off a number of Caleb Williams, Drake Maye, or Jayden Daniels, Minnesota doubtless must commerce an excellent chunk of draft capital to maneuver up the board.

The “Double Up” Path

Personally, this may be my most well-liked route for the Vikings to take this offseason. Minnesota might re-sign Cousins for 2024 whereas additionally drafting their “QB of the longer term” within the first spherical. Cousins will get to guide the cost with regards to remaining aggressive whereas the rookie QB works towards the opposite half of the GM’s philosophy: the rebuild.

This feature additionally permits whichever QB prospect that the Vikings in the end draft to sit down behind Cousins for a 12 months and study Kevin O’Connell’s offense with out a ton of strain being thrown on his shoulders instantly.

Push the Lengthy-Time period Resolution Off a 12 months

This feature wouldn’t be loved by many Vikings followers, however Minnesota might nonetheless decide to push their long-term option to 2025. This route would entail signing Cousins to a different short-term deal whereas additionally not drafting his successor, opting to fill other needs by way of the draft.

It looks as if a not possible choice, particularly given Adofo-Mensah’s phrases in January, however it’s nonetheless a chance and is basically what Minnesota did in 2023.

Signal a Bridge Man

Once more, this path wouldn’t be very talked-about with Vikings followers. There appear to be two camps of followers heading into the offseason. One desires to see Cousins return, and the opposite is prepared for Minnesota to maneuver on and discover a youthful, cheaper choice for his or her QB1.

It’s nonetheless an choice for the Vikings, although. A number of veterans doubtless will hit the open market in March, together with Baker Mayfield, Gardner Minshew, Jameis Winston, and Russell Wilson. The Vikings bought a number of constructive video games out of Josh Dobbs throughout the 2023 season, and all 4 of those choices could be extra gifted.

Josh Frey is a Class of 2020 graduate of The School of Idaho and managing editor of PurplePTSD.com. When he’s not writing concerning the NFL, Josh enjoys working, gaming, or rooting for the Milwaukee Brewers and Bucks. Try his Twitter account: @Freyed_Chicken.