New mock draft highlights how Kirk Cousins' departure could influence Vikings' plans
With Kirk Cousins planning to leave Minnesota for Atlanta, the Vikings must immediately find their quarterback of the future.
Former first-round pick Sam Darnold and Minnesota agreed to a one-year, $10M deal, per NFL Media's Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport. The 26-year-old has posted a below-average 78.3 passer rating in six seasons, meaning he's not the answer, and the Vikings should draft a QB.
In his latest mock draft, The Athletic's Nick Baumgardner had the Vikings trade the 11th overall pick to the Los Angeles Chargers to move up to the fifth slot and take Michigan's J.J. McCarthy.
"The league-wide QB thirst is real," wrote Baumgardner. "[Jayden] Daniels isn't a top-five prospect in this class; McCarthy's not a top-10 prospect. But if it's not Minnesota climbing the board to take the Michigan star, it'll be someone else."
McCarthy — a national champion — only threw for 2,991 yards in his final season with the Wolverines, but scouts think the 21-year-old's game will translate to the next level.
"McCarthy is a lean, athletic quarterback with a live/loose arm," NFL Media's Daniel Jeremiah wrote of the 6-foot-2, 219-pounder. "Overall, other quarterbacks in this class have more volume in the passing game, but it's hard to argue with McCarthy's results. I see some similarities to [former Pro Bowler] Alex Smith coming out of college."
This seems like a solid marriage. McCarthy won't have to play immediately, and he could develop under head coach Kevin O'Connell, an offensive guru.
More importantly, solidifying the position will keep star wide receiver Justin Jefferson happy. The three-time Pro Bowler is entering the final year of his rookie contract.
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