The Minnesota Vikings passed the ball the 3rd most in the league in 2023 (63.3%). Only the Commies and the Bengals passed more frequently. That number is even more impressive considering the rotation of QBs after Kirk Cousins went down. The four quarterbacks combined for a total of 4,700 yards and 30 TDs. That was the most in the NFL, by 2 yards over the Dolphins. The 30 TDs were tied for 4th best in the league.
Needless to say, the Viking passing attack is strong, no matter who is at the helm. Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, TJ Hockenson is up there with the best starting lineup of pass catchers in the league. The OTs are elite and the interior OL is good enough.
However, none of the four QBs that played last year are likely to see the field this year. Sam Darnold will be the presumptive starter and if he goes down for any length of time, it will likely be JJ McCarthy coming in. Much like how Jaren Hall got the immediate nod last year against Atlanta (before he went down). JJ McCarthy has a chance to win the job outright to start the year. Darnold has a career high of 3,024 yards in a season. JJ McCarthy famously was not asked to do a ton and never averaged more than 200 yards a game passing.
Which trend will win out? Kevin O’Connell’s offense being unstoppable with all the skill position talent or the two top QBs history of not putting up big bulk numbers?