Early on in the NFL offseason, the Minnesota Vikings were linked quite often to future Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers. While the rumors were there and the team did look into the option, the Vikings chose not to pursue signing him.

Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell (left) commiserates with Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers after the match during the NFL London 2024 match between Jets and Vikings at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Oct. 6, 2024 in London. Getty Images

The Minnesota Vikings could have had their pick of any quarterback on the free-agent or trade markets. But general manager Kwest Adofo-Mensah is confident in 2024 first-round pick J.J. McCarthy’s ability,