Vikings Bolster QB Room with Brett Rypien and Eye Potential Moves in Free Agency
The Minnesota Vikings wasted no time addressing their quarterback situation following a season-ending loss to the Los Angeles Rams. With J.J. McCarthy as the only quarterback under contract for next season, the Vikings signed veteran Brett Rypien to a reserve/future contract, securing his presence as the team evaluates its options with free agents Sam Darnold and Daniel Jones.
Backup Nick Mullens, who started three games in place of the injured Kirk Cousins during the 2023 season, is also set to hit free agency. Mullens is the longest-tenured quarterback in Minnesota’s system but faces stiff competition from Rypien, who joined the Vikings after being cut by the Chicago Bears.
Minnesota’s decision to waive 2023 fifth-round pick Jaren Hall earlier in the season paved the way for Rypien, whose performance has raised eyebrows within the organization.
“They’ve been so impressed with him at times that he’s made them think and consider their pecking order,” reported Andrew Krammer of the Minnesota Star Tribune on the Access Vikings podcast.
Rypien provides much-needed veteran depth while McCarthy recovers from meniscus surgery, ensuring stability in a critical offseason for the Vikings’ quarterback plans.
Darnold and Jones: The Vikings’ Dilemma
The futures of Sam Darnold and Daniel Jones remain uncertain. Both quarterbacks are poised to explore free agency, but Minnesota has options to retain one—or both—depending on their approach.
Darnold’s late-season struggles may have dented his value, but with quarterback-needy teams across the league, there will be interest. The Vikings could capitalize by employing a franchise tag-and-trade strategy, securing exclusive negotiating rights for potential suitors. Such a move could fetch a third- or fourth-round pick, crucial for a team holding just three picks in the 2025 draft.
If Darnold is moved, the Vikings could shift their focus to re-signing Jones. Offering him a short-term deal would allow Minnesota to pit Jones against McCarthy in an open competition for the starting role.
Full List of Reserve/Futures Signings
The Vikings also bolstered their roster depth by signing 13 players to reserve/futures contracts on January 15. Among the highlights are wide receiver Lucky Jackson, outside linebacker Gabriel Murphy, and cornerback Reddy Steward, who was a standout rookie for the Chicago Bears.
Here’s the complete list of signings:
- QB Brett Rypien
- RB Zavier Scott
- WR Lucky Jackson
- WR Thayer Thomas
- OT Leroy Watson
- OT Marcellus Johnson
- OG Henry Byrd
- DL Jonathan Harris
- DL Travis Bell
- OLB Gabriel Murphy
- ILB Max Tooley
- CB Kahlef Hailassie
- CB Reddy Steward
As the offseason unfolds, the Vikings are setting the stage for a pivotal year ahead with strategic signings and an eye on reshaping their quarterback room.
