The Minnesota Vikings are making significant changes to their coaching staff, with the latest addition being former NFL quarterback Josh McCown as quarterbacks coach. McCown has a strong connection to one of this year’s top quarterback prospects, Drake Maye, whom he coached in high school. This has led to speculation that the Vikings may be considering a move up in the draft to acquire Maye or another top quarterback prospect.
Maye is currently ranked as the No. 2 quarterback prospect on most draft boards, but LSU’s Jayden Daniels has also gained attention and is now considered a top prospect. ESPN’s Dan Graziano has linked the Vikings to Daniels, suggesting that pairing him with star wide receiver Justin Jefferson could be appealing to the organization.
Drake Maye – Josh McCown – Owen McCown
Myers Park High School, 2019 pic.twitter.com/tr33IZXJce
— Josh Norris (@JoshNorris) February 27, 2024
However, Maye’s style as a drop-back, pocket passer may be more in line with Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell’s system. Additionally, Maye is younger than Daniels, which could fit into a long-term succession plan behind current quarterback Kirk Cousins.
Cousins, who is turning 36 years old and recovering from a torn Achilles, is expected to begin contract negotiations with the Vikings. While his recovery is going well, the Vikings may need to plan for his eventual departure.
Vikings going for the all jawline coaching staff. Welcome to the Vikings Drake Maye pic.twitter.com/gWyKz4TCw4
— Josh (@Skol_iosis) February 28, 2024
McCown’s experience as a coach and his familiarity with this year’s quarterback class could play a significant role in the Vikings’ decision-making process. He has previously worked with young quarterbacks, including Bryce Young and C.J. Stroud, and his evaluation skills could be valuable in determining whether the Vikings should make a blockbuster trade to acquire a top quarterback prospect.
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