When Max Brosmer, a 24‑year‑old quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings learned that starter J.J. McCarthy had sprained his right ankle, he suddenly found himself one snap away from an NFL debut. The injury, announced on September 2, 2025, is expected to sideline McCarthy for multiple games, thrusting the undrafted rookie into the spotlight behind veteran Carson Wentz. Head coach Kevin O'Connell said he trusts Brosmer’s poise and decision‑making, labeling the young passer a future star in training camp.
Background: From New Hampshire to the Vikings
Brosmer’s path to Minneapolis was anything but typical. After five seasons (2019‑2023) at the University of New Hampshire, he transferred to the University of Minnesota for a final year in 2024, hoping to showcase his arm against tougher competition. His combine numbers—31½ in arm length, 9½ in hand span, a 4.79‑second 40‑yard dash, and a 1.70‑second 10‑yard split—ranked him in the top third of quarterback prospects that year.
Despite going undrafted, he signed with the Vikings on April 26, 2025. He survived three rounds of cuts, earning a spot on the 53‑man roster on August 26, 2025—a rare feat for an undrafted free agent, and one of only seven to do so that season.
Quarterback Depth Chart Shakeup
Entering the regular season, the Vikings’ quarterback hierarchy appeared set: McCarthy as the starter, former No. 2 overall pick Wentz as the reliable backup, and Brosmer as the developmental third‑stringer. The sudden ankle sprain upended that script. O’Connell, who has overseen the offensive staff since 2022, told reporters, “If the need arises, I feel comfortable handing the ball to Max. His execution in practice has been spot‑on, and he makes fast, accurate decisions under pressure.”
Wentz, now 32, carries a résumé that includes a Super Bowl MVP run with the Philadelphia Eagles (2017‑2019) and stints with the Indianapolis Colts, Washington Commanders, Los Angeles Rams, and Kansas City Chiefs. Yet his own injury history—multiple shoulder and rib issues—means the Vikings are reluctant to rely on him for an extended stretch.
First NFL Appearance: Vikings vs. Bengals
On September 21, 2025, the Vikings faced the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio. In the third quarter, with the game already decided, O’Connell pulled the starter and sent in his rookie. The moment was captured in an event markup:
Vikings vs. BengalsPaycor Stadium
Brosmer completed 2 of 4 passes for 29 yards, becoming the first University of Minnesota alumnus to play quarterback in the NFL since 2002. The short snap was met with cheers from the bench and a flurry of social‑media praise, noting his calm demeanor and quick release.
Coach O’Connell’s Confidence Explained
Behind the scenes, O’Connell’s faith in Brosmer stems from more than just stats. In a September 1 interview, senior writer Jourdan Rodrigue of The Athletic observed, “The Vikings’ coaching staff loves a player who can process information fast. Max showed that during preseason, especially in the third‑week matchup where his poise under a blitz was notable.”
Rodrigue went on to place Brosmer ahead of veteran safety Josh Metellus on his “future hits list,” a bold move given the safety’s popularity among fans. The comment sparked a lively debate on GopherHole.com, where longtime user ‘Yah‑E’ posted, “Excited to see Brosmer get real reps. J.J. said he respects Max’s work ethic—might change everything for the young quarterback.”
Implications for the Vikings’ 2025 Season
With McCarthy sidelined for an estimated three to four weeks, the Vikings could see Wentz start the next two games before Brosmer steps in as the emergency option. That scenario presents a mixed bag: Wentz’s experience could stabilize the offense, but his recent wear‑and‑tear raises concerns about durability.
If Brosmer gets meaningful snaps, the Vikings gain a cheap, high‑upside talent who could develop into a long‑term solution. His preseason numbers—a 71 % completion rate, 2 touchdowns, and no interceptions—suggest he can handle pressure. Moreover, his ability to throw accurately on the move aligns with O’Connell’s offensive scheme, which favors quick reads and short, high‑percentage passes.
From a financial perspective, keeping an undrafted player on the roster is a win for the team’s salary‑cap flexibility, especially as the Wilf family’s ownership group continues to invest in depth across the board. The Vikings’ front office, based at the TCO Performance Center in Eagan, Minnesota, has already highlighted the need for “home‑grown” talent to complement their veteran core.
Historical Context: Vikings Quarterbacks
The franchise has long searched for a franchise quarterback. Legends like Fran Tarkenton and Brett Favre set high standards, but since the retirement of Teddy Bridgewater in 2022, the position has been a revolving door. Brosmer’s emergence is the latest chapter in that saga, echoing the surprise breakout of rookie quarterback Kirk Cousins in 2012 when he stepped in after an injury to Matt Cassel.
Should Brosmer stick around beyond the injury fill‑in, he could become the first undrafted quarterback to earn a regular‑season start for the Vikings since the team’s early days. That would not only boost his personal brand but also give fans a fresh narrative to rally behind as the season heads into the crucial mid‑year stretch.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will J.J. McCarthy be out?
Team doctors estimate a sprained right ankle will keep McCarthy sidelined for three to four weeks, meaning he could miss the Vikings’ next two to three games depending on his rehab progress.
Will Carson Wentz start the upcoming games?
Given Wentz’s experience and the narrow margin of McCarthy’s injury, head coach O'Connell is expected to start Wentz for at least the next two contests, using him as a bridge before any further decisions.
What makes Max Brosmer a potential long‑term solution?
Brosmer combines solid arm strength with a quick decision‑making process, reflected in his 71 % preseason completion rate. His undrafted status also provides salary‑cap flexibility, allowing the Vikings to develop him without a large financial commitment.
How does this situation affect the Vikings’ playoff hopes?
If Wentz can effectively manage the offense while McCarthy recovers, the Vikings should stay competitive. However, a prolonged injury at quarterback could expose depth issues, making each game critical for their postseason trajectory.
Has any undrafted quarterback ever become a starter for the Vikings?
No undrafted player has started a regular‑season game at quarterback for Minnesota since the franchise’s inception. Brosmer’s appearance marks a historical first and could set a precedent if he earns more snaps.
