Key Highlights
- Minnesota Vikings may explore the quarterback market after a disappointing 2025 season.
- C.J. Stroud’s name has surfaced in trade talks despite Houston Texans not actively seeking to move him.
- NFL Draft analyst Todd McShay suggests big-name quarterbacks, including Stroud, could be targeted next week.
- Stroud is eligible for a contract extension this offseason and his future remains uncertain with the Texans.
The Minnesota Vikings’ Quarterback Dilemma
The 2025 season was one to forget for the Minnesota Vikings. Inconsistent play at the quarterback position left fans and analysts questioning whether it’s time for a change. While most speculation has centered around veteran quarterbacks and reclamation projects, one name has quietly entered the conversation: C.J. Stroud.
Stroud’s Rising Speculation
C.J. Stroud, the quarterback of the Houston Texans, is coming off a disappointing season, particularly in his playoff performance where he accumulated numerous interceptions and fumbles. However, NFL Draft analyst Todd McShay hinted that Stroud could be one of the big-name quarterbacks targeted in the next few weeks. “I’m told, don’t be surprised if in the next couple of weeks there are some big-name QBs that are going to be targeted,” said McShay on his podcast.
Despite this speculation, it’s important to note that Houston Texans management is not actively looking to move Stroud.
However, his name has caught the attention of several quarterback-needy teams. SI.com’s Albert Breer questioned whether the Texans might prefer to punt their contract negotiations with Stroud to next year, rewarding Anderson in the process.
Stroud’s Potential Impact on the Vikings
Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell has been known for his ability to infuse confidence into his passers. Sam Darnold is a prime example of this strategy, but Stroud could be the franchise quarterback the Vikings have been looking for. Given Stroud’s rookie season and the youth he brings to the table, a realistic trade package could start with a couple of first-round picks.
Editor’s Note: Information from PFF, Over The Cap, and Sports Reference helped with this article.
The Texans’ Position
In reality, the Texans would have to get a notably good package in return for trading Stroud to make the most sense. Stroud is still just 24 years old, on his rookie contract, and even despite his playoff woes, has more than enough time to rebound back into the franchise quarterback he was drafted to be.
Texans writer Jared Koch of SI added, “In reality, the Texans would have to get a notably good package in return for trading Stroud to make the most sense. Stroud is still just 24 years old, on his rookie contract, and even despite his playoff woes, has more than enough time to rebound back into the franchise quarterback he was drafted to be.”
Stroud’s rookie season looked promising, but since then, he hasn’t been as sharp. A trade could go two ways: either establishing himself quickly or proving that initial hype might have been overrated.
A High-Risk, High-Reward Bet
If the Vikings were to consider Stroud, it would be a high-risk, high-reward bet. He has the potential to become the franchise quarterback they’ve been looking for, but his recent struggles make him a long shot. The Vikings could also consider other options like Kyler Murray, Kirk Cousins, Mac Jones, Aaron Rodgers, and Malik Willis if they decide not to pursue Stroud.
For now, it’s unclear whether the Texans would even entertain trade talks given that they need a starting quarterback themselves. If they do move Stroud, the Vikings will face similar options in the future, including players like those mentioned above.
Stay tuned on this one as the offseason unfolds and teams continue to monitor quarterback movement across the NFL.