The Minnesota Vikings are likely testing out the Kyler Murray experiment in 2026, but 2027 may open up a whole new level of intrigue.
Murray signed a one-year deal with the Vikings, and is widely expected to be the starter over J.J. McCarthy in week one. But depending on how the year goes, Minnesota, and even Murray, could be looking to assess new paths in 2027. If a split becomes evident, one potential avenue could have the Vikings landing a potential MVP-candidate in Joe Burrow.
Joe Burrow Lands on Minnesota’s Radar After Adam Schefter Report
After the Dexter Lawrence trade, ESPN Insider Adam Schefter reported that the Cincinnati Bengals appear to be going all-in in an effort to maximize Joe Burrow’s prime, and just as importantly, keep him happy.
“This is considered to be a hugely significant season for Joe Burrow and his future in Cincinnati,” wrote Schefter. “If the Bengals cannot turn it around, some have speculated about whether Burrow might wonder whether he is better off playing in another NFL city.”
Bleacher Report’s Moe Moton listed Minnesota as one of Burrow’s top landing spots should things turn sideways in Cincy.
“Among the possible landing spots, the Vikings would have the best structure in place for Burrow,” wrote Moton. “He would reunite with his former LSU teammate, Justin Jefferson, who’s one of the league’s top receivers, easing the sting of leaving another star wideout, Ja’Marr Chase.”
“Regardless of Murray’s performance in the upcoming term, the Vikings should monitor Burrow’s situation in Cincinnati. They would need to clear some cap space to offer him a deal comparable to what other teams with more financial flexibility can offer, though. Minnesota is projected to have slightly less than $50 million in cap space next offseason.”
Would the Vikings Move on From Kyler Murray if Joe Burrow Becomes Available?
For now, the Vikings are all in on Kyler Murray, or potentially McCarthy depending on how things shake out. Murray has a chance to bring similar success to Minnesota as Sam Darnold did just a few seasons ago, but is coming off of his worst season as a pro. Still, he’s a former No. 1 overall pick, and could reignite his career in Minnesota. And after letting Darnold walk in free agency, the Vikings aren’t about to make that mistake twice if Murray plays well.
Murray has all the tools to find success with the Vikings, and should have a clear path to becoming the long-term starter. Still, if things don’t go to plan for Minnesota and Cincinnati, a quarterback change for each could be on the horizon.
Burrow has maintained that he is happy with the Bengals, but a lack of recent postseason success has brought those claims into question. If Cincinnati struggles again in 2026, there’s a world where Burrow wants out, and Minnesota would be a clear favorite if they are open to the possibility. For now, both teams seem content with their quarterbacks heading into the season, but things can change very quickly in the NFL.
Vikings Linked to Joe Burrow in 2027 after Latest Insider Report