The Minnesota Vikings, sitting at 6-2 after a 23-6 loss to the Buffalo Bills, are searching for a new quarterback on trade deadline day. Starter Kyler Murray is sidelined with a hamstring injury, and replacement Carson Wentz completed just 8 of 25 passes for 81 yards with two interceptions. Minnesota's offense ranks 28th in points per game (17.4) and has only 11 offensive touchdowns, tied for the fewest in the league.
Top Trade Candidates
1. Kirk Cousins, Las Vegas Raiders – The 38-year-old veteran spent 2019-23 with the Vikings, including two seasons under current coach Kevin O'Connell. Cousins has thrown for 2,340 yards with 20 touchdowns and 8 interceptions this season (64.1% completion, 7.43 yards per attempt). He knows the system and can target star receiver Justin Jefferson, but his mobility and arm strength have declined, and he is coming off a three-interception game. The Raiders would need to part with a mentor for rookie first-round pick Fernando Mendoza.
2. Geno Smith, New York Jets – Smith has rebounded after a poor 2025 season, posting a 67.5% completion rate, 2,078 yards, 12 touchdowns, and only 3 interceptions (7.67 yards per attempt). He leads the league with 16 completions of 20+ yards downfield. The Jets have a history of deadline deals but lack 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, though a significant offer could change that. Jones has struggled this year (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 the Vikings' practice squad in 2024, but his recent performance makes him a risky upgrade.
