The primary emphasis this offseason will likely be on the Minnesota Vikings’ player transactions, with trade talks and other speculation running high during this period.
However, there are also significant changes happening within their coaching staff.
One notable addition is Josh McCown, who brings 17 years of NFL experience to his new role as quarterbacks coach. McCown also shares a close connection with one of the top quarterback prospects of this year, Drake Maye from North Carolina.
ESPN’s Jordan Reid highlighted McCown’s previous coaching stint at Myers Park High School in Charlotte back in 2019, where he worked alongside Maye, who was the quarterback at the time.
Drake Maye – Josh McCown – Owen McCown
Myers Park High School, 2019 pic.twitter.com/tr33IZXJce
— Josh Norris (@JoshNorris) February 27, 2024
Speculation naturally arose regarding the Vikings’ potential draft strategy.
Reacting to the hire, former Daily Norseman writer Eric Thompson commented on X, suggesting a connection between the Vikings’ new coach and Drake Maye from their high school days.
Thompson clarified that he wasn’t reading too deeply into the hiring decision, but it certainly caught the attention of others, especially on the first day of the NFL Scouting Combine. Persistent rumors suggest that the Vikings are considering a move up in the draft to select a quarterback this year.
One fan humorously remarked, “Vikings assembling a coaching staff with impeccable jawlines. Welcome aboard, Drake Maye!”
Vikings going for the all jawline coaching staff. Welcome to the Vikings Drake Maye pic.twitter.com/gWyKz4TCw4
— Josh (@Skol_iosis) February 28, 2024
Vikings Could Be Weighing Trade Options Between Drake Maye, Jayden Daniels
Drake Maye currently ranks as the second quarterback prospect on most draft boards, although his standing has slightly dipped since the end of the season, with LSU’s Jayden Daniels climbing to the number two spot in some evaluations.
ESPN’s Dan Graziano has associated the Vikings with Daniels, noting their meeting at the combine, as reported by Bleacher Report’s Ryan Fowler. Graziano highlighted Minnesota’s recognition of the long-term need to address the quarterback position, suggesting that the idea of pairing Daniels with standout wide receiver Justin Jefferson, also from LSU, appeals to some within the Vikings organization.
However, Maye’s style as a drop-back, pocket passer seems better suited to fit the system of Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell. Additionally, Maye’s younger age could align well with a succession plan behind current quarterback Kirk Cousins.
The status of Cousins’ return remains uncertain, with negotiations for a new contract expected to begin during the combine. Despite turning 36 in August and recovering from a torn Achilles, Cousins has shown promising progress in his rehabilitation, as evidenced by a workout video he posted just before the combine. Nonetheless, it would be prudent for the Vikings to prepare for his eventual departure, whenever that may occur.
Josh McCown Seemed High on Texans’ QB C.J. Stroud
Last season, at the age of 44, McCown began in the same coaching role with the Carolina Panthers. However, he was terminated alongside former Head Coach Frank Reich when the Panthers were struggling with a 1-10 record.
During his tenure, the Panthers’ offense struggled, ranking 31st in touchdowns and dead last in points scored, despite having rookie No. 1 overall pick Bryce Young as their quarterback. This marked McCown’s first foray into coaching in the NFL. He was also a contender for the head coaching position with the Houston Texans, which ultimately went to DeMeco Ryans.
McCown had shown interest in Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud, the No. 2 overall pick last year, and had communicated his high regard for Stroud to Young during the pre-draft process.
Now, McCown joins Marcus Dixon, the defensive line coach, as a new addition to Kevin O’Connell’s coaching staff.
McCown’s prior NFL experience includes two seasons with the Chicago Bears from 2011 to 2012 and one season with the Detroit Lions in 2006. His expertise in evaluating quarterback talent and his connections within the quarterback class could prove crucial in the Vikings’ potential consideration of a significant trade.
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