The Minnesota Vikings took a patient approach in rebuilding their quarterback group after losing Sam Darnold (to the Seahawks), Daniel Jones (to the Colts), and Nick Mullens (to the Jaguars).
Keeping the NFL’s compensatory pick formula in mind, the Vikings let the veteran backup market for J.J. McCarthy thin out before eventually striking a deal with Seattle for quarterback Sam Howell on Saturday. Howell, who started for one season, is expected to back up McCarthy as QB2.
Still needing additional depth for offseason workouts, Minnesota didn’t have to search far. Just hours after the draft ended, the Vikings signed 19 undrafted free agents, one of whom was Max Brosmer, a 24-year-old quarterback from the Minnesota Golden Gophers. Brosmer received a significant offer, with $250,000 guaranteed, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.
A transfer from New Hampshire, where he led the FCS in passing yards, Brosmer spent only one season with the Gophers but set a school record for most single-season completions (268) in 2024. He finished with 2,828 passing yards, 18 touchdowns, six interceptions, and a 66.5% completion rate.
Brosmer excels at targeting the intermediate areas of the field, a key element of Kevin O’Connell’s offensive system.
“Brosmer is most effective working the intermediate zones, showing anticipation, a sharp release, and a strong spiral into tight spaces. However, his deep-ball accuracy is questionable, and when he’s off-rhythm, he tends to make receivers work harder,” The Athletic’s Dane Brugler noted. “While Brosmer struggles when forced outside of structure, his intelligence and determination could help him earn a backup spot in the NFL.”
Brosmer now joins Brett Rypien at the lower end of Minnesota’s quarterback depth chart, giving the Vikings four quarterbacks heading into minicamp this May. There’s a realistic chance for him to battle for a roster spot this summer.
Meanwhile, McCarthy, who just turned 22 in January, remains the youngest quarterback on the team.