Could the Minnesota Vikings Make a Big Move at Quarterback? Four Potential Landing Spots as Adam Schefter Fuels Trade Rumors

The Minnesota Vikings could be preparing to make a major move at quarterback, and NFL insider Adam Schefter has given fans plenty of reasons to pay attention.

With the NFL trade deadline approaching on November 10, 2026, Minnesota finds itself in an interesting position. The Vikings have the defensive talent to compete with the best teams in football, but questions surrounding their quarterback situation could force the organization to explore the market.

Schefter recently said he is keeping a close eye on Minnesota’s quarterback situation, pointing to the team’s championship-caliber defense and the need for more consistent offensive production. He also specifically floated the possibility of the Vikings pursuing Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones.

So, what could Minnesota do? Here are four quarterbacks who could potentially become Vikings, ranging from a familiar face to a blockbuster trade.

1. Derek Carr: Could Minnesota Convince the Veteran to Come Out of Retirement?

There is one major obstacle: Carr announced his retirement in May 2025 because of a shoulder injury.

However, Carr has left the door slightly open to a return. In July 2026, he acknowledged that multiple teams had contacted him and said it would take a special situation, preferably with a Super Bowl contender, to convince him to return.

Could Minnesota be that situation?

The Vikings could offer Carr an opportunity to join a talented roster and compete for a championship. If his shoulder is healthy enough and he has the desire to return, Minnesota could at least explore the possibility.

The question: Does Carr want another shot at football, or is he officially finished?

2. Justin Herbert: The Blockbuster Trade Nobody Would See Coming

If the Vikings really want to make a statement, why not investigate Justin Herbert?

Herbert has established himself as one of the NFL’s most talented quarterbacks, and despite his difficult 2026 campaign, his physical ability and experience make him an intriguing long-term possibility.

The Chargers would almost certainly demand significant compensation. Minnesota could potentially be looking at multiple first-round draft picks and additional assets to even begin negotiations.

There is also the question of whether Los Angeles would actually consider moving its franchise quarterback.

Sports Illustrated and other NFL coverage have discussed Herbert as a theoretical Vikings target, although there is no confirmed indication that the Chargers are shopping him. SI+1

For Minnesota, this would be an enormous investment, but it could also give Kevin O’Connell a quarterback to build around for years.

3. Daniel Jones: Adam Schefter Has Already Floated This Possibility

Daniel Jones might be one of the most fascinating names connected to Minnesota.

Schefter specifically mentioned the Vikings as a possible destination for Jones, asking whether Minnesota could make a run at the Indianapolis quarterback.

Jones has familiarity with Kevin O’Connell’s coaching staff after spending time with Minnesota in 2024. Although he never played a game for the Vikings, he had an opportunity to learn the offensive system and observe how O’Connell prepares his quarterbacks.

Jones subsequently found success in Indianapolis before suffering an Achilles injury in 2025. Unfortunately, his 2026 campaign has been disappointing.

The Colts could potentially consider moving him as they evaluate their direction, but his two-year, $88 million contract creates a significant financial complication.

Would Minnesota be willing to take that financial gamble?

A reunion with O’Connell could be an intriguing storyline, especially if the Vikings believe they can get Jones back to his previous level of play. 

4. Kirk Cousins: A Reunion in Minnesota?

Could Kirk Cousins return to Minnesota?

Cousins spent six seasons with the Vikings from 2018 through 2023 and knows the organization, the fan base and Kevin O’Connell’s offensive philosophy.

After leaving Atlanta, Cousins signed with the Las Vegas Raiders in April 2026. He has reportedly been playing well, making him an interesting potential trade candidate if the Raiders decide to move in another direction.

The challenge is that Las Vegas is also competing for a playoff spot. The Raiders would have little incentive to move a productive quarterback unless the offer was attractive.

Still, Cousins knows what it takes to operate Minnesota’s offense. A reunion could provide some familiarity at a position where the Vikings desperately need consistency.

NFL insider Michael Silver has also raised the possibility of Minnesota exploring a trade to reacquire Cousins.

Which quarterback makes the most sense for Minnesota?

Final Thoughts: The Vikings May Not Be Done Making Moves

Minnesota is in an interesting position heading toward the November 10 trade deadline. The Vikings have aspirations of competing for a championship, but quarterback consistency remains a major question.

Adam Schefter’s comments have certainly added fuel to the speculation. While he has not reported that Minnesota has a deal in place, his decision to specifically highlight the Vikings’ quarterback situation is worth watching.

Derek Carr, Justin Herbert, Daniel Jones and Kirk Cousins would represent four very different approaches to solving the problem.

Would Minnesota take a chance on a veteran free agent? Would they reunite with Cousins? Could they pull off a blockbuster for Herbert? Or will they make a call to Indianapolis about Daniel Jones?

One thing is certain: Vikings fans will be watching the quarterback market closely.

Who would you want the Vikings to bring to Minnesota?