Brosmer's Debut: Vikings' QB Shake-Up

The Unexpected Helm: Max Brosmer Steps In for Vikings

In a stunning turn of events for the Minnesota Vikings, undrafted rookie quarterback Max Brosmer is set to make his first career start this Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks. This unexpected opportunity arises due to J.J. McCarthy's placement in the NFL's concussion protocol, marking the latest chapter in a tumultuous season for Minnesota's quarterback room.

McCarthy's injury woes continue to plague the Vikings. After missing five games earlier this season with a high-ankle sprain, he now faces another setback. During the Week 12 loss to the Green Bay Packers, McCarthy sustained two separate head impacts in the fourth quarter – first on a tackle by Packers linebacker Isaiah McDuffie, then on a tackle by defensive end Kingsley Enagbare. He self-reported symptoms on the team's flight back to Minnesota, leading to his current status in protocol.

This development thrusts Brosmer, a local product who starred at the University of Minnesota, into the spotlight. The Vikings have had their eye on Brosmer since March 2024, when he transferred into the program from the University of New Hampshire. Head coach Kevin O'Connell and General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah were so impressed after attending his pro day that Adofo-Mensah lobbied to get him an invite to the NFL Combine, despite the Vikings' limited draft capital. "I kind of wish[ed] I hadn't lobbied for Brosmer to the combine because then he'd really be our secret," Adofo-Mensah was overheard saying later.

"Don't be shocked if Max balls out." – NFL Source on Brosmer's potential

Though Brosmer went undrafted in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Vikings were the most aggressive team in signing him. He has been the only consistent backup quarterback on the active roster since April, outlasting others who have come and gone. He saw limited garbage-time action earlier in the season and was poised to enter a game in Week 5 when Carson Wentz suffered a non-throwing shoulder injury, though Wentz ultimately returned.

The Matchup: Vikings vs. Seahawks in Darnold's Shadow

Adding another layer of intrigue to Sunday's game is the subplot surrounding Sam Darnold. The Vikings made a passing attempt to re-sign Darnold this offseason but were outbid by the Seahawks, who offered more money and years. Darnold has since flourished in Seattle, creating a fascinating reunion game atmosphere – even though Darnold himself won't be playing due to injury.

Brosmer faces a significant challenge against an 8-3 Seahawks defense. However, there's a sense of cautious optimism within the Vikings organization. NFL sources describe Brosmer as "made of the right stuff," highlighting his quick processing and consistent accuracy – attributes J.J. McCarthy has struggled to consistently display. Unlike McCarthy, who some scouts note has primarily a "fastball" arm, Brosmer is expected to offer more variety, potentially allowing the Vikings to better utilize intermediate routes in the passing game.

"We've caught wind of cautious optimism that the moment won't be too big for Brosmer," reported Mike Florio of Yahoo Sports. "He processes quickly, he throws accurately. Consistent accuracy is something McCarthy hasn't displayed."

What's Next for the Vikings?

While an upset of the Seahawks might be too much to expect from a 4-7 team, the primary goal for the Vikings on Sunday is evaluation. The best-case scenario is seeing enough from Brosmer to position him as a potential candidate to start in 2026, especially with Minnesota inevitably exploring all options at quarterback this offseason.

As Devin McCourty noted after working the Vikings' preseason game, the organization holds Brosmer in very high regard, with some believing he could have a long NFL career. Sunday's start is the first real test of that belief. Whether he passes the eyeball test, delivers to open receivers, and makes quick decisions under pressure will be closely watched.

Regardless of the outcome, the Vikings' quarterback situation remains fluid. With McCarthy's injury history and the looming need to assess the long-term future of the position, Brosmer's debut represents a crucial, if unforeseen, development in Minnesota's season.