With Kirk Cousins now in Atlanta and Sam Darnold expected to start in 2024, the Minnesota Vikings are already being linked to quarterback prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft.
In a recent mock draft by ESPN’s Jordan Reid and Ben Solak, the Vikings are projected to select Ohio State QB Will Howard with the No. 11 pick. Howard, a Kansas State transfer, is known for his big arm and mobility. Though he still needs to prove himself at Ohio State, he’s considered a high-upside prospect with NFL tools.
This projection comes after the Vikings passed on Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy in the 2024 draft, opting instead to trade down and draft edge rusher Dallas Turner. While Darnold is the current starter, he’s likely a bridge quarterback until Minnesota lands a long-term solution.
Howard has a chance to boost his draft stock significantly this season under head coach Ryan Day. If he performs well, he could become a top pick—and possibly the next face of the Vikings franchise.
