If the Vikings aim for the top five with their two first-round picks, the best fit at quarterback would depend on their specific needs and preferences. Among the top quarterbacks in the draft class, players like Bryce Young, C.J. Stroud, and Caleb Williams could be strong considerations. Each brings a unique skill set and potential to the table, so the choice would likely hinge on which player aligns best with the Vikings’ offensive system and long-term vision.
When the Minnesota Vikings traded for the 23rd overall pick from the Houston Texans, their intention to target a top quarterback in the draft became evident. With four highly-touted quarterbacks in this year’s draft class, the Vikings’ move suggested a post-Kirk Cousins plan to secure a new signal-caller.
Among these quarterbacks, USC’s Caleb Williams has long been projected as the top pick to the Chicago Bears, especially after the Bears traded Justin Fields. This makes it likely that Williams will be off the board, prompting a closer look at the other options and how they could fit with the Vikings.
One such option is North Carolina’s Drake Maye, whose standout attribute is his arm talent. Similar in size to Eli Manning, Maye has excelled at pushing the ball downfield, particularly over the middle. He completed 37 of 73 passes that traveled more than 20 yards down the middle, with 34 of those completions considered “big-time throws” by PFF’s standards. In comparison, Michael Penix Jr., known for his strong arm, had 18 big-time throws on 66 deep-middle passing attempts.
The Vikings have shown a desire to create explosive plays with a deep passing game, as evidenced by Justin Jefferson’s high average depth of target last season. Additionally, about 15% of Cousins’ throws to any receiver went more than 10 yards into the middle of the field in 2023.
Maye also adds value with his legs, having gained 1,481 rushing yards and scored 16 touchdowns in the last two years at North Carolina. He recorded 56 runs of more than 10 yards, showcasing his ability to make plays when things break down, a quality that Vikings GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah has expressed interest in.
However, Maye is not without flaws. He struggled when blitzed, taking sacks more than 20% of the time, and had a 69.0 QB rating when pressured, ranking 25th in the NCAA. He also showed inconsistency, leading NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein to label him a “boom or bust” prospect, suggesting that he may need patient coaching to reach his potential.
With the Vikings’ coaching staff and talented downfield receivers, Maye could thrive given time to develop, despite the typical impatience in the NFL. His age and potential make him a prospect worth investing in for the Vikings.
Jayden Daniels is an intriguing prospect for the Vikings, despite Coach Kevin O’Connell’s history of coaching non-running quarterbacks. Daniels’ exceptional rushing abilities, evidenced by his 1,250 yards on just 65 carries last year, could be difficult to stifle. Additionally, O’Connell’s own experience as a college runner might make him more open to incorporating Daniels’ running skills into the Vikings’ offense, even though he’s recently worked with more traditional quarterbacks like Matthew Stafford and Kirk Cousins.
Daniels’ talent extends beyond his legs; he threw for 40 touchdowns with just four interceptions, completing 71% of his passes and leading all of college football in quarterback rating. His deep passing accuracy is particularly impressive, completing 63% of passes over 20 yards with 22 touchdowns and zero interceptions.
However, there are concerns about Daniels being a one-year wonder at 23 years old. Questions linger about whether his breakout was due to an exceptional supporting cast or if he’s truly made a significant leap in skill, akin to Joe Burrow. In 2022, he threw 23 fewer touchdowns and was sacked 45 times in 505 drop-backs, a worrisome rate. While he improved his sack rate in 2023 (21 sacks in 408 drop-backs), the issue of being prone to sacks remains.
Despite these concerns, Daniels is highly regarded as a pocket passer. He demonstrates good mechanics, footwork, and football intelligence, enabling him to navigate the pocket, progress through his reads, and make quality decisions. While his arm strength may not match that of other top prospects like Maye or Williams, his overall skill set suggests he has the potential to be a difference-maker in the NFL.
With the Vikings’ array of playmakers, who often draw multiple defenders, Daniels could be a formidable threat in the NFC. His ability to extend plays with his legs and make accurate throws could make him a dynamic addition to the Vikings’ offense.
Nov 4, 2023; Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA; LSU Tigers quarterback Jayden Daniels (5) is helped off the field with trainers and medical staff after being hit by the Alabama Crimson Tide defense during the second half at Bryant-Denny Stadium. After review Alabama was penalized with roughing the passer. Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
JJ McCarthy made a strong impression at the NFL Combine, showcasing his arm strength and agility. His ability to throw the ball with velocity comparable to Josh Allen and posting a quick three-cone drill time highlighted his physical talents. McCarthy’s experience playing for a championship team under an NFL head coach adds to his appeal.
However, McCarthy’s limited overall experience raises concerns. In his two years as Michigan’s starting quarterback, he only attempted 656 passes, though he managed an impressive 43 touchdowns to nine interceptions and a 110.6 QB rating. He excelled under pressure last season, averaging 9.5 yards per attempt and completing 63% of his passes, among the best in college football.
Michigan’s offensive scheme did not heavily rely on McCarthy’s passing, with only 13% of his attempts traveling 20 yards or more downfield, and he only had three games with 30 or more pass attempts.
The lack of a larger sample size makes McCarthy a polarizing prospect. Analyst Lance Zierlein’s assessment is cautious, suggesting McCarthy needs to improve in areas predictive of top-level NFL success.
Despite these concerns, McCarthy could be an excellent fit for the Vikings. With Sam Darnold on the roster, McCarthy could develop under O’Connell and QB coach Josh McCown. His leadership, communication skills, winning background, and ability to manage an NFL-style offense align with what the Vikings are seeking.
While McCarthy may not have the same “wow” factor as other top quarterbacks, his potential is high, making him an intriguing option if the Vikings are unable to trade up for one of the top prospects.
