Image Source: The New York Times
Max Brosmer has made the Minnesota Vikings’ initial 53-man roster, securing a surprising opportunity as the team finalized its quarterback group Sunday evening. The Vikings kept four quarterbacks, including 2024 first-round pick J.J. McCarthy, veteran Carson Wentz and starter Kyler Murray.
The decision came ahead of the NFL’s roster cutdown deadline and leaves Minnesota with an unusually crowded quarterback room. While the team’s initial roster is set, the arrangement may not remain unchanged throughout the 2026 season.
Max Brosmer Earns a Critical Vikings Roster Spot
Brosmer, 25, joined Minnesota as an undrafted free agent out of the University of Minnesota. The team believed in his potential when it signed him, but injuries forced him into action earlier than the Vikings had hoped.
He completed 20 of 35 passes in Minnesota’s preseason finale against the Denver Broncos on Friday night. A thumb injury had limited his preseason opportunities, making his performance one of the few extended chances to evaluate him in live game action.
Despite the limitations, Brosmer remained in the organization’s plans. His retention gives the Vikings another developing option behind Murray while also preserving a player the team views as having long-term potential.
Vikings Keep Four Quarterbacks for Now
Minnesota’s current quarterback depth chart features Murray as the starter, with Wentz, McCarthy and Brosmer also on the roster. It would be unusual for the Vikings to carry four quarterbacks for an entire regular season, so the team could still make a move through a trade, release or other roster transaction.
- Kyler Murray: Minnesota’s projected starting quarterback.
- Carson Wentz: The veteran expected to provide immediate backup experience.
- J.J. McCarthy: The 2024 first-round selection entering his third season.
- Max Brosmer: The former undrafted free agent who impressed enough to remain on the initial roster.
The four-quarterback configuration also gives Minnesota flexibility while the front office evaluates health, development and potential roster opportunities. However, keeping four players at one position can create challenges elsewhere, particularly as teams balance depth across the offensive and defensive units.
J.J. McCarthy’s Status Adds More Intrigue
McCarthy’s inclusion was notable because several people around the NFL believed the Vikings might explore trade opportunities involving him before the roster deadline. He did not play in Friday’s preseason finale against Denver.
Several team sources told The Athletic that McCarthy was not comfortable enough to play because of an ankle injury. The sources spoke anonymously because they were not authorized to discuss the situation publicly. His inactive status followed a week of uncertainty surrounding his health and place within the team’s plans.
McCarthy, 23, is entering his third season and remains under roster control through 2027. His uneven 2025 performance contributed to Minnesota’s decision to sign Murray in the spring, creating a complicated quarterback situation heading into the regular season.
For now, McCarthy remains a Viking alongside Brosmer. That outcome means Minnesota has chosen to retain both a former first-round investment and a local undrafted prospect whose development has accelerated because of injuries.
What the Roster Decision Means for Minnesota
The Vikings’ decision provides competition and insurance behind Murray, but it also creates important questions. Wentz brings experience, while McCarthy offers significant draft pedigree and remaining team control. Brosmer, meanwhile, represents a less expensive developmental option with familiarity inside the organization.
The immediate question is whether Minnesota believes it can carry all four quarterbacks into Week 1. The answer could depend on McCarthy’s ankle, Brosmer’s health after his thumb injury and the team’s assessment of its needs at other positions.
For Brosmer, making the initial 53-man roster is a major career milestone. Undrafted players often face steep odds during training camp, and his path became even more difficult after missing preseason opportunities. His retention suggests the Vikings are not ready to give up on his potential.
As the regular season approaches, Brosmer will be competing not only for a roster place but also for a defined role in Minnesota’s quarterback development plan. Whether he remains active on game days or continues learning behind more experienced players, he has earned additional time to prove he belongs in the NFL.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Max Brosmer make the Vikings’ 53-man roster?
Yes. Max Brosmer was included on Minnesota’s initial 53-man roster finalized Sunday evening.
How did Max Brosmer perform in the preseason finale?
Brosmer completed 20 of 35 pass attempts against the Denver Broncos on Friday night.
How many quarterbacks did the Vikings keep?
Minnesota initially kept four quarterbacks: Kyler Murray, Carson Wentz, J.J. McCarthy and Max Brosmer.
Will the Vikings keep four quarterbacks all season?
That remains uncertain. Carrying four quarterbacks for an entire season would be unusual, and Minnesota could still make a roster change.
