The Minnesota Vikings, sitting at 6-2, find themselves in crisis following a 23-6 loss to the Buffalo Bills that exposed their quarterback woes. With starter Kyler Murray sidelined by a hamstring injury, backup Carson Wentz completed just 8 of 25 passes for 81 yards and two interceptions, leaving the offense ranked 28th in points per game (17.4) and tied for the fewest offensive touchdowns in the league (11). As the trade deadline approaches, Minnesota is evaluating several veteran options to salvage a season backed by a Super Bowl-caliber defense.
1. Kirk Cousins, Las Vegas Raiders
Cousins, who played for the Vikings from 2019 to 2023 under current head coach Kevin O'Connell, is the top candidate. The 38-year-old has posted a 64.1% completion rate, 2,340 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 8 interceptions this season (7.43 yards per attempt). His familiarity with the system and ability to target star receiver Justin Jefferson make him a logical fit, though his mobility and arm strength have declined. The Raiders would need a compelling reason to move him, as he mentors rookie first-round pick Fernando Mendoza and Las Vegas faces a short-week matchup against the Seattle Seahawks.
2. Geno Smith, New York Jets
Smith has rebounded with the Jets, completing 67.5% of his passes for 2,078 yards, 12 touchdowns, and only 3 interceptions (7.67 yards per attempt). His 16 completions of 20+ yards rank fourth in the NFL, addressing Minnesota's lack of downfield passing. The Jets have a history of deadline deals, having traded Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams last year, and could add to their 2027 draft capital. However, New York lacks a proven backup behind Smith, with only rookie Cade Klubnik and practice-squad quarterback Will Levis available.
3. Daniel Jones, Indianapolis Colts
The Colts have reportedly said they will not trade Jones, but a significant offer could change that. Indianapolis has already moved veterans Quenton Nelson and DeForest Buckner, with others like Jonathan Taylor, Josh Downs, and Grover Stewart potentially available. Jones has struggled this season (60.3% completion, 1,722 yards, 6 touchdowns, 10 interceptions, 5.7 yards per attempt) and has not thrown more touchdowns than interceptions in any game. He spent time on Minnesota's practice squad in 2024, but his recent turnover issues make him a risky upgrade over Murray.
