What Does Daniel Jones’ Move to Minnesota Mean for the Vikings?
EAGAN, Minn. — Sometimes, a smile says more than words ever could. That was the case on Monday when Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell was asked about his interest in signing free-agent quarterback Daniel Jones. O’Connell, known for his thoughtful and often lengthy responses, kept it short and sweet this time: “Really not going to get into that at this time.” But the grin that followed? That told a different story.
Fast forward to Wednesday, and the Vikings made it official, signing the former New York Giants quarterback to a one-year contract for the remainder of the season. The move raises a big question: What exactly is there to smile about when it comes to Jones?
Let’s not sugarcoat it—Jones’ 2024 season with the Giants was a disaster. He struggled so much as their starter that the team not only benched him but buried him on the depth chart and eventually waived him. The Giants were so eager to move on that they didn’t want to risk an injury triggering his 2025 guarantees. Since being drafted No. 6 overall in 2019, Jones ranks 27th out of 39 eligible quarterbacks in QBR. Ouch.
Get someone who looks at you the way Kevin O’Connell looks at someone when asked if he has interest in signing Daniel Jones. pic.twitter.com/OD0kCGdlnS
— Kevin Seifert (@SeifertESPN) November 27, 2024
So why bring him to Minnesota? The answer lies in the Vikings’ complicated quarterback situation, which has been a hot topic all season. Starter Sam Darnold has been a revelation since joining the team on a one-year deal this offseason. He’s led the Vikings to a stellar 9-2 record and already surpassed his career high in touchdown passes with 20. At 27 years old, Darnold is playing the best football of his career and could command a hefty free-agent contract in 2025.
But here’s the catch: The Vikings also have rookie J.J. McCarthy, the No. 10 pick in the 2024 draft, waiting in the wings. McCarthy is widely seen as the team’s quarterback of the future, and head coach O’Connell has been vocal about his belief in the young signal-caller. Back in training camp, O’Connell said, “I really believe that J.J. has kind of confirmed to me and a lot of our coaches and players that we got the right guy in the building for the future.”
McCarthy is the only quarterback under contract for the 2025 season, as backups Nick Mullens and Brett Rypien are on expiring deals. Even though McCarthy is recovering from a second knee surgery to address swelling in his right meniscus, the Vikings clearly see him as their long-term solution. That leaves the team in a tricky spot: Do they re-sign Darnold, who’s thriving but would cost a premium? Or do they hand the reins to McCarthy and use the salary cap savings to build around him?
Enter Daniel Jones. The Vikings’ decision to sign him is less about this season and more about the future. Sure, it’s unlikely Jones will see the field in 2024 unless Darnold gets injured (though Vikings fans will remember the team went through four quarterbacks in 2023). But this move gives Minnesota a chance to evaluate Jones up close and see if he could be a viable backup—or even a bridge starter—behind McCarthy in 2025.
Why This Move Makes Sense
- Quarterback Depth: With McCarthy recovering from surgery and Darnold’s future uncertain, the Vikings need options at the position.
- Low Risk, High Reward: Jones will start on the practice squad, meaning he can still sign elsewhere if another team needs a quarterback. For the Vikings, it’s a no-lose situation.
- Coaching Opportunity: O’Connell has earned a reputation as one of the NFL’s best quarterback developers. If anyone can help Jones rediscover his potential, it’s him.
For Jones, this is a golden opportunity. He’ll get to work with one of the league’s top quarterback tutors in O’Connell, as well as offensive coordinator Wes Phillips and quarterbacks coach Josh McCown. Even if he doesn’t stick with the Vikings long-term, this stint could help him rebuild his value heading into free agency.
Of course, there’s a potential downside. Adding another veteran quarterback during a playoff push could create unnecessary distractions, especially with Darnold playing so well. But Darnold has been a consummate professional during his time in Minnesota, and there’s no reason to think Jones’ arrival will rattle him.
At the end of the day, this move is about planning for the future while keeping an eye on the present. The Vikings are in the thick of a playoff race, but they’re also thinking about what comes next. And if O’Connell’s smile is any indication, the team is confident they’re making the right moves to set themselves up for success—both now and in the years to come.
For Vikings fans, it’s a reminder that in the NFL, the future can arrive faster than you think. Buckle up, Minnesota. This quarterback carousel is just getting started.
Originally Written by: Kevin Seifert
