The Vikings are well-prepared to sweep off a $160 million quarterback on a direct route to free agency.

The Minnesota Vikings have experienced a similar situation in the past with Kirk Cousins, where contract negotiations reached an impasse. As the Dallas Cowboys deal with Dak Prescott’s contract uncertainty, the Vikings should be observant.

Prescott is set to play out the final year of his four-year, $160 million contract without an extension. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, there have been no offers from Dallas, indicating that Prescott might test free agency in 2025.

This development could benefit the Vikings, who are unlikely to land a top rookie quarterback in the 2024 draft without a major trade. It’s unclear if they are interested in the next tier of passers in the draft class. Meanwhile, their 2024 free-agent acquisition, Sam Darnold, is seen as a temporary solution, although Head Coach Kevin O’Connell has expressed confidence in him.

Prescott, at 30, had an impressive season last year, leading the NFL in touchdown passes (36) and completions (410), with a career-high 69.5% completion rate for 4,516 yards. He also threw the longest pass of the season, a 92-yard touchdown.

With $104.6 million in projected cap space, Spotrac ranks the Vikings fifth in the NFL. The New England Patriots, Detroit Lions, Washington Commanders, and Los Angeles Chargers are projected to have more cap space. New England and Washington have the opportunity to draft their future quarterbacks this year, while the Chargers have Justin Herbert, and the Lions may consider Jared Goff’s postseason success as a factor.

This situation could leave the Vikings in a strong position to pursue Prescott or other quarterbacks in free agency.