Daniel Jones could be promoted ahead of the Vikings' biggest game of the season.
Minnesota head coach Kevin O'Connell said Monday that Jones is considering moving up to the roster after starting the first month of his career with the Vikings on the practice squad.
“As far as timing, we're going to have some dialogue about that,” O'Connell told reporters Monday. “Daniel has been quietly working on a phenomenal job behind the scenes. All that's worth talking about. … Meanwhile, Daniel seems to be making his own personal plans.”
It's an interesting decision for the Vikings, who will play the Lions on Sunday Night Football for the No. 1 seed in the NFC.
Adding the former Giants quarterback to the 53-man roster could give the Vikings a compensatory pick, depending on whether Jones signs with another team this offseason and the terms of his contract.
But given the importance of the game in Detroit, roster management decisions should also be considered.
Veteran Nick Mullens is the primary backup to Sam Darnold, who is having a phenomenal season, with Brett Rypien serving as the third-stringer.
Although Coach O'Connell has high praise for Jones, it would still be a bold move to move Jones to a reserve role in a season where the team is aiming for a Super Bowl appearance.
Mullens is a career backup, but he has three years of experience in Minnesota and is familiar with O'Connell's offense.
Jones, 27, started with a 2-8 record and was benched and demoted to the fourth team after playing in the midfield, before being released at the Giants' request in late November.
Jones chose to sign with a prospect that would give him playing time over a bad team in order to rebuild his prospects before he hits free agency this offseason.
Darnold could consider re-signing with the Vikings, who will have to make an important decision this offseason.
The former Jets QB is set to become a free agent and is sure to earn a big contract after throwing for 4,153 yards and 35 touchdowns this season, leading the Vikings to a 14-2 record.
However, the Vikings also have J.J. McCarthy, the No. 10 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, returning from a torn meniscus that cost him his rookie season.
If they select McCarthy, that decision could depend on how Darnold performs in the postseason, but Jones could fit in as a potential backup.
