During the NFL offseason, fans anticipate significant roster changes, with many familiar players poised to join new teams. For the Minnesota Vikings, the aftermath of a disappointing 2023 season suggests a major transition ahead, notably in the quarterback position, as rumors swirl about veteran Kirk Cousins potentially heading to the Atlanta Falcons.

Should the Vikings opt to trade Cousins, several avenues open up for securing a new starting quarterback. One probable path involves acquiring a replacement through free agency. According to BetOnline’s latest odds, the Vikings are favored to sign Baker Mayfield from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, with their odds set at +200.

Competition for Baker Mayfield’s services is heating up, with several teams vying for his signature. Joining the Minnesota Vikings in the race are the New England Patriots (+400), Atlanta Falcons (+600), Denver Broncos (+700), and Las Vegas Raiders (+700), rounding out the top five contenders according to BetOnline’s odds.

The outcome will be intriguing, especially considering the circumstances of each team. The Patriots are navigating a transition period as they embark on the Jerod Mayo era, seeking stability at the quarterback position. The Broncos find themselves in need of a quarterback after parting ways with Russell Wilson, while the Raiders aim to make a significant move following the impending departure of Jimmy Garoppolo.

After a disappointing 7-10 season in 2023, it appears the Vikings are seeking a better and younger quarterback option. Baker Mayfield, fresh off a solid season with the Buccaneers, who reached the NFL Divisional Round playoffs, seems like an upgrade over the 35-year-old Kirk Cousins.

Analysts suggest that Mayfield could command a contract in the range of $100 to $120 million over four years. With Cousins’ contract situation, the Vikings must act swiftly to address their quarterback position. If they don’t extend Cousins before March 13, they’ll be burdened with a significant dead cap hit of $28.5 million. However, it seems unlikely that they’ll reach an extension with Cousins, hence the increasing speculation linking them to Mayfield.