Vikings could potentially part ways with their $4 million Quarterback this summer

The Minnesota Vikings charted a new path by selecting J.J. McCarthy with the 10th pick in the NFL draft, possibly signaling the departure of another young quarterback from the team.

Jaren Hall, a former fifth-round pick, had a brief stint as a starter for the Vikings during his rookie season, but circumstances cut his appearances short. A concussion sidelined him during his first start against the Atlanta Falcons, and later, his performance led to his removal from the lineup against the Green Bay Packers in Week 17 after just 10 pass attempts, replaced by Nick Mullens.

With the arrival of McCarthy and former No. 3 overall pick Sam Darnold on a one-year deal worth $10 million, Hall’s future with the team seems uncertain. Alec Lewis of The Athletic projected Hall to be the odd man out in the quarterback room in his Thursday, May 2 report, envisioning Darnold to start the season, with McCarthy and Mullens as backups.

The Vikings are cautious about rushing McCarthy’s development, as his background in Michigan’s offensive system shares similarities with head coach Kevin O’Connell’s offense, and he has experience playing under center. However, the team aims to nurture him like a prized prospect in baseball, waiting until all decision-makers are convinced of his readiness before putting him in the spotlight.

This plan hinges on Darnold’s performance and the team’s preparedness to turn to Mullens if needed. While team leaders hope for the best, they are also planning for potential setbacks, ensuring they have contingencies in place.

Jaren Hall Missed Shot to Become Vikings’ Long-Term Starter Following Concussion Against Falcons

Hall seemed to be gaining momentum when former Vikings starter Kirk Cousins suffered a season-ending Achilles tear against the Packers in Week 8. Hall stepped in during that game and earned the starting role in Week 9 under head coach O’Connell. However, his opportunity was cut short when Josh Dobbs replaced him after Hall’s concussion in Atlanta.

Despite Dobbs’ unfamiliarity with the team and limited knowledge of the offense, he led the Vikings to an unexpected victory. Dobbs remained the starter for about a month, ending with a 2-2 record before being replaced by Mullens due to injury. Mullens took over and had impressive statistical performances in his two starts but couldn’t secure victories.

Hall was given another chance in Week 17, but his struggles led to a swift end to his second opportunity as a rookie.

Jaren Hall Has Unlikely Path to Starting Role, Top-2 QB Spot With Vikings

Dobbs faces a tough competition against Mullens, who boasts 20 career starts (with a 5-15 record) and impressive passing performances, including multiple 300-yard games and even a 400-yard game, during his time with the Vikings last season.

On the other hand, Hall’s debut NFL season saw him completing 13 of 20 passes for 168 yards with one interception, according to Pro Football Reference. Entering the second year of his four-year, $4.1 million rookie contract, Hall could potentially serve as a valuable member of the Vikings’ practice squad offense if he doesn’t secure one of the top three spots in the quarterback lineup, as predicted by Lewis.

Unless Hall impresses significantly during training camp and proves himself as a potential starting quarterback, his options appear limited. While there’s a slim chance he could find employment elsewhere if released by the Vikings, the more plausible scenario involves him staying with the team as a backup to McCarthy until his contract expires in 2026. However, if circumstances align, such as an injury to Darnold or Mullens, Hall could seize the opportunity to claim a starting role temporarily until McCarthy is ready to take over.