In response to the unfortunate loss of starting quarterback Kirk Cousins, who is sidelined for the 2023 season due to a torn Achilles, the Minnesota Vikings have made strategic moves ahead of the NFL trade deadline. The Vikings have acquired quarterback Josh Dobbs from the Arizona Cardinals in exchange for a 2024 sixth-round pick and a seventh-round pick. Dobbs, currently in his seventh NFL season, brings experience and versatility to the Vikings’ quarterback room. He started eight games for the Cardinals in the absence of Kyler Murray, completing 62.8 percent of his passes for 1,569 yards, eight touchdowns, and five interceptions.
Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell expressed confidence in the acquisition, emphasizing the team’s commitment to fortifying the quarterback position and providing the best chance for continued success. Dobbs, originally a fourth-round pick by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2017, adds a veteran presence with mobility to the team. Despite Cousins’ impressive performance leading the team out of an 0-3 start to the season, the Vikings are adapting to the unforeseen circumstances.
The Vikings plan to start rookie Jaren Hall against the Atlanta Falcons while Dobbs familiarizes himself with the playbook. O’Connell highlighted the immediate impact of acquiring Dobbs, securing a quality player without compromising the team’s future prospects.
In addition to the quarterback acquisition, the Vikings executed another trade, sending left guard Ezra Cleveland to the Jacksonville Jaguars in exchange for a 2024 sixth-round pick. Cleveland, a second-round pick from Boise State in 2020, has been a consistent starter since his rookie season, but a toe injury has sidelined him for the last two games. With Cleveland’s departure, it is expected that Dalton Risner will assume the starting role at left guard for the remainder of the season.
Despite trade rumors surrounding star edge rusher Danielle Hunter, the 3 p.m. trade deadline passed without a deal, ensuring that Hunter will remain with the Vikings. Hunter, leading the NFL with 10 sacks through eight games, is eligible to become a free agent next offseason, making his future contract negotiations a focal point for the team.
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