The Minnesota Vikings are being urged to consider signing quarterback Justin Fields as a potential backup for the 2025 season, especially with J.J. McCarthy currently the only quarterback under contract for that year. Given McCarthy’s uncertain future after season-ending knee surgery, the Vikings will likely need to secure a backup in case McCarthy doesn’t live up to expectations in his second year.
The Vikings have had success with Sam Darnold this season, who was signed to a one-year, $10 million deal in March. Darnold has been a key part of the Vikings’ 7-2 start to the 2024 season, putting up career-best numbers in passing stats. However, McCarthy, originally expected to be the starter, is recovering from a second knee surgery and may not be ready in time for next season.
Fields, who was drafted in the first round by the Chicago Bears in 2021, could be a good fit for Minnesota. After being traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers in the offseason to back up veteran Russell Wilson, Fields took over as starter when Wilson suffered a calf injury. Fields performed well, leading the Steelers to a 4-2 record while recording 10 total touchdowns and only one interception. He also posted a career-high 66.3% completion rate and career-low averages in interceptions and sacks per game.
With his impressive six-game stretch, Fields is now ranked as the No. 2 quarterback available in 2025 free agency, according to ESPN. While he may not immediately secure a starting job, Minnesota could offer him the opportunity to compete for the starting role with McCarthy, who has yet to play in a regular-season game.
Justin Fields
Fields, projected to earn a one-year, $9.2 million deal in free agency, would be an affordable option for the Vikings. With the Bears in turmoil and Fields reportedly requesting a trade earlier this year, the Vikings could be an appealing destination for him. ESPN’s Brooke Pryor reported that Fields had the Vikings on his list of preferred teams, along with the Raiders and Falcons, before signing with Pittsburgh.
With Darnold expected to move on after his one-year contract, Fields could be a valuable addition to the Vikings as they plan for the 2025 season.
