Report: Vikings out on Aaron Rodgers, committed to JJ McCarthy

The Minnesota Vikings are committed to J.J. McCarthy being their starting quarterback in 2025. They’re planning to add a veteran quarterback, but it won’t be Aaron Rodgers, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.

“The #Vikings have rejected multiple trade calls on J.J. McCarthy, telling other teams they’re moving forward with him as their quarterback, sources say. The team plans to add a veteran. But they’re not pursuing Aaron Rodgers at this time,” Pelissero posted on X. “McCarthy now enters the offseason as QB1.”

While Rodgers to the Vikings has picked up some steam over recent weeks, as it seemingly made sense for both sides, it’s not hard to see why Minnesota would want McCarthy to be their starting quarterback in 2025. They did draft him in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, and the former Michigan star looked solid in limited preseason action last season.

At this point, Kevin O’Connell could likely get anyone to deliver formidable quarterback play for the Vikings. His resume speaks for itself, and McCarthy’s tools could help Minnesota get to the next level. Rodgers would’ve been nice if the young quarterback wasn’t able to go, but with all systems heading in the right direction, it’s time to take the training wheels off.

So where will Rodgers sign, now that the Vikings have recused themselves? The 41-year old has offers from both the Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Giants. Who prevails in the sweepstakes for the four-time NFL MVP remains to be seen.

It’s been fascinating to see the two franchises waiting to see who will land Rodgers. He hasn’t played at his past Hall of Fame level since taking his talents from Green Bay to the New York Jets, but Rodgers enjoyed immense success over almost two decades with the Packers. It hasn’t been smooth sailing, not since Green Bay decided to move on to Jordan Love as their starting quarterback.

Retirement was something many predicted for Rodgers, but it seems like he wants to go out a winner, instead of after a disappointing season with the Jets. Is that a possibility if he joins the Steelers or the Giants? It’s not out of the question, but it certainly won’t be an easy task for the veteran quarterback.

Time will tell what’s next for Aaron Rodgers. We know what’s next for the Minnesota Vikings though. They’re rocking with J.J. McCarthy for the 2025 season, and the future is bright for the NFC North squad.