The Minnesota Vikings face a critical decision at the NFL trade deadline on Tuesday as they seek to address a struggling offense following a 23-6 loss to the Buffalo Bills.
The loss on Monday Night Football leaves the 6-2 Vikings with significant concerns at quarterback. Starter Kyler Murray is sidelined with a Grade 2 hamstring strain, a condition that typically requires at least three weeks for recovery, according to Minnesota Sports Fan.
Backup Carson Wentz started the game, completing 8-of-25 passes for 81 yards and two interceptions. The Vikings’ offensive performance during the contest included failing to convert on any of their eight third-down attempts.
Some trade talk on ESPN’s Sunday NFL Countdown: pic.twitter.com/C7yHaLsInz
— Post by @AdamSchefter on X
While some reports indicate the Vikings remain bullish on Murray, James Palmer notes the organization is open to adding a quarterback via trade. James Palmer also indicated the team is open to a trade, noting that Monday’s game against Buffalo might be a turning point for a potential change.
Several veteran options have been linked to the Vikings as the 3 p.m. CT deadline approaches:
Kevin O'Connell, asked by @SeifertESPN if the Vikings will consider adding a QB before the trade deadline: "I'll defer to Nolan on that. We've had dialogue about a lot of different positions. Tight turnaround, obviously, playing the Monday night game before that. We'll get right…
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- Daniel Jones: Heavy reports the Indianapolis Colts have begun listening to trade offers for the quarterback, who is currently playing under a two-year, $88 million extension. Jones previously spent time on the Vikings’ practice squad in 2024, and there is history between him and the Vikings’ offense. ESPN’s Adam Schefter noted on “Sunday NFL Countdown” that a deal between the two teams could materialize, specifically wondering if Minnesota would try to bring him back.
- Kirk Cousins: The Raiders quarterback is considered an obvious fit for the Vikings due to his extensive time playing in Kevin O’Connell’s offense. Cousins has familiarity with the Vikings’ scheme and existing chemistry with the team’s weapons. However, Pro Football Network reports the Raiders have shown no interest in moving the veteran.
- Mac Jones: The Big Lead mentions the San Francisco 49ers backup as a possibility, though Heavy notes the 49ers had set an “astronomical” price for the player.
- Other Options: Discussions have also included Geno Smith, as a potential available starter. Some have suggested a play for Justin Herbert, though it is unclear if his recent performance issues are due to his surroundings or his own play. Jimmy Garoppolo, who is currently a free agent, has also been mentioned.
There is disagreement among insiders regarding how aggressively the Vikings are pursuing a deal.
The urgency for a move is driven by a significant drop in offensive efficiency. Pro Football Network reported that the Vikings’ offense totaled just 178 yards and 127 passing yards during their loss to Buffalo. Max Brosmer provided 58 of those passing yards during garbage time late in the game. Brandon Austin noted that the offense is anemic and the quarterback play has been abysmal.
General manager Nolan Teasley faces the challenge of balancing immediate needs against future assets.
The NFL trade deadline remains open until 4:00 p.m. ET on Tuesday.
23-6 FINAL. All fears about the offense appear justified. The Vikings defense was on the field for a whopping 42:32. Carson Wentz's 8.9 passer rating was the lowest for an NFL QB since Sam Darnold's "seeing ghosts" game in 2019. They've lost 2 in a row since a 6-0 start.
— Post by @SeifertESPN on X
More on Carson Wentz
Appropriately, the Vikings get their first first down on a play where Carson Wentz was sacked. Defensive holding on the Bills.
— Post by @SeifertESPN on X
Whether it's Cousins, Smith, Jones, Herbert, or anyone who might be out there, the Vikings must trade for a starting quarterback by 3 p.m. on Tuesday to give their all-world defense a shot. More: https://t.co/bYaNahkKuc
— Post by @WillRagatz on X
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