The Minnesota Vikings face a looming question: who will lead their offense after Kirk Cousins’ contract expires? While fifth-round pick Jaren Hall shows promise, it’s wise to have a backup plan. With a potentially thin quarterback room in 2024, the Vikings might find their future signal-caller in the upcoming NFL Draft. Here’s a look at ten intriguing quarterbacks to keep an eye on during the 2023 college football season.
The Elite Tier: Caleb Williams & Drake Maye
Alt: Quarterback Caleb Williams throws a pass during the 2023 NCAA football season.
Two names stand out from the pack: Caleb Williams of USC and Drake Maye of North Carolina. Williams, potentially the top pick in 2023 if eligible, brings a tantalizing blend of arm talent and playmaking ability. Maye, boasting a cannon for an arm, has garnered similar hype.
Landing either quarterback would require significant draft capital. The Vikings would likely need a top pick, achievable either through a dismal season or a trade involving substantial assets.
The Michigan Standout: J.J. McCarthy
Alt: Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy scrambles during a 2023 college football game.
ESPN draft guru Todd McShay has the Vikings selecting J.J. McCarthy in his early 2024 mock draft. This Michigan product offers a well-rounded skillset, combining accuracy, arm strength, and mobility. If he continues to develop, McCarthy could be a perfect fit for the Vikings’ offensive scheme.
Proven Production: Michael Penix Jr.
Some quarterbacks peak later in their college careers, and Michael Penix Jr. embodies this. After four years at Indiana showcasing flashes of brilliance, he exploded at Washington last season, throwing for over 4,300 yards and 31 touchdowns. While he’ll be 24 as a rookie, his 2022 performance demonstrated his first-round potential.
The High-Ceiling Prospects: Ewers, Nix, and Travis
Several quarterbacks possess the potential to skyrocket up draft boards with impressive 2023 seasons:
Quinn Ewers (Texas): The former No. 1 recruit needs to translate his immense talent into production. With a year of experience under his belt, Ewers could be poised for a breakout year.
Bo Nix (Oregon): A dynamic dual-threat quarterback, Nix thrived in his first year at Oregon after transferring from Auburn. If he improves his passing consistency, Nix could be a Heisman contender and high draft pick.
Jordan Travis (Florida State): Graded as Pro Football Focus’s top Power Five quarterback last season, Travis is another dual-threat option with a nose for the endzone.
Intriguing Wildcards: Daniels, Rattler, and Hartman
Rounding out the list are three quarterbacks with fascinating narratives and the potential to exceed expectations:
Jayden Daniels (LSU): A dynamic runner with a knack for protecting the ball, Daniels needs to refine his passing skills to reach his full potential.
Spencer Rattler (South Carolina): Entering his fifth year of college football, Rattler aims to recapture the brilliance that once made him the nation’s top prospect. With improved support and experience, Rattler could be a steal in the draft.
Sam Hartman (Notre Dame): After setting ACC passing records at Wake Forest, Hartman transferred to Notre Dame, hoping to refine his game in a pro-style offense. If successful, his draft stock could soar.
The 2024 NFL Draft offers a diverse pool of quarterback talent. While the Vikings’ future at the position remains uncertain, these ten quarterbacks provide a glimpse into the potential solutions that may await them.
