The #Vikings have rejected multiple trade calls on J.J. McCarthy, telling other teams they’re moving forward with him as their quarterback, sources say.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 19, 2025
The team plans to add a veteran. But they’re not pursuing Aaron Rodgers at this time. McCarthy now enters the offseason as… pic.twitter.com/oPf6DIvQpj
Rumors circulated earlier this month that Rodgers and the Vikings were sniffing around each other, but the Vikings have apparently closed the door. They still intend to pursue a veteran quarterback, but one with a clearly defined role as a backup. Evidently, the Vikings are content to hand over the reins to 2024 10th-overall pick McCarthy, despite the fact that the young passer is coming off a knee injury that cost him the entirety of his rookie season.
Rodgers has previously been linked to the New York Giants and Pittsburgh Steelers this offseason, but he is also mulling retirement. In theory, the Vikings offered a more direct path to the playoffs. They thrived in 2024 with former New York Jets castoff Sam Darnold under center, finishing with a 14-3 record while scoring 25.4 points per game.
Still, what's good for Rodgers isn't necessarily what's good for the Vikings. He has been thoroughly ineffectual over his past three seasons, amassing a 14-21 record while averaging 5.85 net yards per passing attempt and 216.9 passing yards per game. Now 41 years old, he's not a good bet to outplay McCarthy, and holding a clipboard on the bench may be too undignified for the four-time MVP.
Of the two teams allegedly still interested in Rodgers, the Steelers likely provide the more direct path to postseason contention. They've made the playoffs in four of the past five seasons, even with often middling quarterback play. They also have a credible wide receiver duo in George Pickens and the recently acquired D.K. Metcalf.
As for the Giants, it's difficult to see what they have to offer from a coaching or roster perspective. They've finished 30th or worse in points scored in four of their past five seasons and are coming off a disastrous 3-14 season. Perhaps most alarmingly, they've allowed a preposterous 133 sacks since 2023. Unless Rodgers is eager to stay in the region despite his underwhelming stint with the New York Jets, the Giants seem like a poor fit.
At this point in his career, Rodgers should prioritize his health and his legacy. If he doesn't believe he can make a significant impact on the Steelers or Giants, he's better off stepping away from the game than suffering through yet another disappointing season.
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