The Minnesota Vikings are officially moving on from Kirk Cousins and are on the hunt for a new franchise quarterback.
With the No. 11 and No. 23 overall picks in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft, the Vikings know they may need to make a bold move to secure one of the top college quarterbacks who are expected to go quickly.
Even though the team recently signed Sam Darnold to a one-year deal, it is clear that he is just a temporary solution. General manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah acknowledges the need for flexibility, stating that if they are unable to trade up, they will consider selecting a quarterback in a later round or wait until the 2025 Draft.
The Vikings’ evaluation process for this year’s quarterback prospects is also worth noting. Instead of attending most pro days, the coaching staff and GM opted for private workouts. Coach O’Connell shared that they use lunch meetings as a test to gauge a player’s personality and how they interact with others.
According to O’Connell, a quarterback’s ability to lead can be seen in small gestures like offering to pay for lunch or reaching for the bill. These qualities are essential for a player who is expected to lead the team on and off the field. O’Connell values not only a quarterback’s talent but also their leadership qualities and character.
As the Vikings continue their search for a new franchise quarterback, they are considering all aspects of a player’s personality and leadership abilities to ensure they make the right choice for the team’s future.
