DONE DEAL: Minnesota Vikings Secure Tennessee Titans Quarterback Will Levis as Backup to J.J. McCarthy and Brett Rypien
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the NFL offseason, the Minnesota Vikings have officially completed a deal to acquire Will Levis, the talented but somewhat underutilized quarterback from the Tennessee Titans. The deal, confirmed this morning by both teams, solidifies Levis as the Vikings’ new backup quarterback behind J.J. McCarthy, the team’s projected starter for the 2025 season, and Brett Rypien, who rounds out the quarterback depth chart.
Levis, a former second-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, has shown flashes of brilliance during his limited time with the Titans. Despite battling for playing time in a crowded quarterback room, the Vikings have seen enough potential to believe that Levis can step in at a moment’s notice should McCarthy struggle or face injury. The terms of the deal are still unfolding, but early reports indicate that Levis will join the Vikings on a three-year deal worth around $10 million.
The Vikings’ Quarterback Plan: A Clear Path for McCarthy, with Levis as the Safety Net
For the Minnesota Vikings, this move represents more than just a depth addition to their quarterback room. It is a deliberate part of their long-term strategy. The franchise has been vocal in its intention to make J.J. McCarthy the starter for the 2025 season, following the departure of veteran Kirk Cousins. But as with any NFL season, injuries and unforeseen struggles can derail even the most well-laid plans.
By securing Levis as their backup, the Vikings are setting themselves up for success without compromising their commitment to McCarthy. Vikings general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah spoke to reporters earlier this week about the team’s philosophy on quarterback depth.
“We are really excited about J.J. McCarthy’s future here in Minnesota, and we’ve been clear that he will be our starting quarterback. But in the NFL, you need a quarterback room that is capable of handling any situation. Will Levis is a talented player, and we believe he provides us with a lot of upside and flexibility.”
Levis will not only compete for the backup role against Brett Rypien, but he will also have a chance to continue his development under the guidance of Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell, who has earned a reputation for nurturing young quarterbacks.
Will Levis: A Look Back at His Career So Far
Levis, 24, was drafted by the Tennessee Titans in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft with high expectations. A former standout at the University of Kentucky, Levis was heralded for his strong arm and athleticism, which drew comparisons to some of the league’s best quarterbacks. However, his tenure in Tennessee was marked by inconsistency, with Titans head coach Mike Vrabel opting for veteran quarterback Ryan Tannehill as the starter.
Despite his limited game action, Levis showcased flashes of his potential during his rookie year. In the four games he started for the Titans, Levis threw for 1,150 yards, with 8 touchdowns and 3 interceptions. While those numbers were respectable, he faced challenges in the Titans’ run-heavy offense, which didn’t allow him to fully showcase his skill set.
However, the Vikings see Levis’ raw talent and strong arm as a valuable asset. Sources close to the team have suggested that Levis will have the opportunity to learn behind McCarthy, a young quarterback who has drawn rave reviews from Vikings staff. McCarthy, who was drafted by Minnesota in 2024, is viewed as the franchise’s future at the position. But given his limited NFL experience, the Vikings are wise to have a seasoned backup like Levis in place.
Why Will Levis? A Strategic Move for the Future
The acquisition of Levis could be a stroke of brilliance for the Vikings. Despite his early struggles in Tennessee, his athleticism and potential were evident. Levis is regarded as a quarterback with exceptional physical traits — a strong arm, impressive mobility, and the ability to make throws on the run. Under the right circumstances, many believe that he has the tools to eventually become a starting quarterback in the NFL.
For the Vikings, it’s all about having the right balance. McCarthy has the upside and the opportunity to become the franchise leader, but the Vikings are hedging their bets by bringing in Levis. If McCarthy experiences any setbacks or requires time to develop further, Levis will be ready to step in.
Brett Rypien, who served as a backup for the Broncos in recent seasons, will remain with the team as the third-string quarterback. Rypien’s experience as a backup will be invaluable in helping McCarthy and Levis with preparation and game planning, but it’s clear that Levis will be given every opportunity to solidify the backup spot in 2025.
Reaction from the Vikings Locker Room
The move has already generated excitement inside the Vikings’ locker room. Many of McCarthy’s teammates were quick to praise the addition of Levis, believing that the former Titans quarterback will bring valuable competition and fresh energy to the quarterback room.
“Will Levis is a talented guy, and having him here adds depth to our team,” said Justin Jefferson, the Vikings’ star wide receiver. “The more competition, the better we all get, and I’m excited to work with him and J.J. throughout the offseason.”
Levis’ arrival in Minnesota is also a positive for the Vikings’ offense, as the team is looking to expand its playbook and become more dynamic. Under O’Connell’s system, the Vikings have incorporated a variety of offensive schemes, and Levis’ arm strength and ability to make deep throws could be a valuable asset if he’s called upon to play.
The Impact on the Titans’ Quarterback Room
The trade also raises questions about the future of the Tennessee Titans’ quarterback room. With Levis now out of the picture, Tennessee is left with Ryan Tannehill as their presumed starter, and rookie Malik Willis as the primary backup. Many analysts expect the Titans to use the 2025 draft to bolster their quarterback depth, but for now, the team will rely on Tannehill’s veteran presence and Willis’ development.
The trade signals a shift in the Titans’ strategy, moving away from the Levis experiment after just one season. While the Titans have shown patience with young quarterbacks in the past, the team’s current situation may call for a more stable and experienced option under center.
What’s Next for the Vikings?
For Minnesota, this trade represents a calculated risk that could pay off significantly in the future. The Vikings are clearly committed to McCarthy as their starter, but they also recognize the unpredictable nature of the NFL season. Having Levis as a potential emergency starter provides added security.
Looking ahead, the Vikings are expected to continue building around McCarthy, with a focus on bolstering their offensive line and skill positions. But the quarterback room, now featuring McCarthy, Levis, and Rypien, is ready for the 2025 season. The Vikings are positioning themselves as a competitive team in the NFC, and with the addition of Levis, they’ve shown that they are prepared for every eventuality.
Conclusion: A Bold Move for the Vikings
The Minnesota Vikings’ decision to bring in Will Levis as the backup quarterback represents more than just a depth move—it’s a reflection of the team’s confidence in its future. While J.J. McCarthy remains the clear leader of the offense, the Vikings now have a talented, physically gifted backup in Levis, who could potentially be a key contributor in the event of injury or poor performance.
As the 2025 season looms, all eyes will be on McCarthy and Levis as they vie for their roles in the Vikings’ high-octane offense. One thing is certain: the Minnesota Vikings have made a statement that they are ready to compete at the highest level in the NFC, with a quarterback room that is deep, dynamic, and poised for success.
