Vikings Named Trade Candidate for $230 Million Quarterback

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nate Lunak | Last updated Feb 8, 2026 2:22 PM ET

J.J. McCarthy started 10 games in his second season with the Minnesota Vikings. He struggled, throwing for 1,632 yards, 11 touchdowns, 12 interceptions and a 72.6 passer rating.

With Minnesota undergoing leadership changes after firing general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, there's a belief that the team will explore other quarterback options.

After going 9-8 and missing the playoffs, the Vikings have already had plenty of time to mull over offseason decisions. On March 11, the new league year begins, meaning free agency begins and teams can officially complete trades.

Bleacher Report's Joseph Zucker named the Vikings as a potential landing spot for Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray.

Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell.Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images

"The Minnesota Vikings aren't going to cut J.J. McCarthy already, but head coach Kevin O'Connell might be feeling some pressure after the team fired general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah," Zucker wrote. "Minnesota needs a better contingency plan at quarterback than Carson Wentz. Murray would be a big upgrade in that regard."

Murray appeared in just five games in 2025, completing 110-of-161 passes for 962 yards, six touchdowns and three interceptions. He also rushed for 173 yards and one touchdown.

Despite his struggles, the two-time Pro Bowler has emerged as one of the top options for teams in need of a quarterback. However, his contract is an area of concern.

Murray has three seasons left on his five-year, $230.5 million deal. Even with the final year being a club option, it would be a major financial obligation for any trade partner. The Cardinals would likely be asked to eat a significant portion of the contract.

If Minnesota completed a trade for Murray, it would immediately create competition between him and McCarthy.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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