The Minnesota Vikings are reportedly considering a trade for quarterback Anthony Richardson, who is seeking a new team ahead of the fourth and final season of his rookie contract in 2026. The move could provide an opportunity for the franchise to find a long-term solution beyond starter J.J. McCarthy.
Richardson's impressive arm and leg talent have been hindered by developmental struggles across two seasons with the Indianapolis Colts, where he was drafted as the fourth overall pick in 2023. Despite being beaten out for the starting role by Daniel Jones this preseason, Richardson remains an elite prospect.
Coach Kevin O'Connell has shown a knack for developing quarterbacks, having worked with Sean McVay's disciple and has expressed respect for Richardson's abilities. If the Vikings were to bring him on board, it could mark a significant turning point in their quarterback room, especially considering McCarthy's extensive injury history that includes ligament tears, high-ankle sprains, and concussions.
A trade for Richardson would not only provide a potential long-term solution but also a viable short-term replacement if McCarthy struggles again. The team has been linked to veteran quarterbacks Joe Flacco or Kenny Pickett via free agency next March, indicating that they are exploring all options to bolster their quarterback depth.
McCarthy himself will take the field as the Vikings' starter against the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday, marking his first-ever NFL snap as QB1. However, with Brosmer's recent promotion and Richardson's reported interest in a deal to join the team, it remains to be seen how McCarthy's injury history will impact his playing time going forward.
Richardson's impressive arm and leg talent have been hindered by developmental struggles across two seasons with the Indianapolis Colts, where he was drafted as the fourth overall pick in 2023. Despite being beaten out for the starting role by Daniel Jones this preseason, Richardson remains an elite prospect.
Coach Kevin O'Connell has shown a knack for developing quarterbacks, having worked with Sean McVay's disciple and has expressed respect for Richardson's abilities. If the Vikings were to bring him on board, it could mark a significant turning point in their quarterback room, especially considering McCarthy's extensive injury history that includes ligament tears, high-ankle sprains, and concussions.
A trade for Richardson would not only provide a potential long-term solution but also a viable short-term replacement if McCarthy struggles again. The team has been linked to veteran quarterbacks Joe Flacco or Kenny Pickett via free agency next March, indicating that they are exploring all options to bolster their quarterback depth.
McCarthy himself will take the field as the Vikings' starter against the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday, marking his first-ever NFL snap as QB1. However, with Brosmer's recent promotion and Richardson's reported interest in a deal to join the team, it remains to be seen how McCarthy's injury history will impact his playing time going forward.