The Minnesota Vikings are considering adding Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa to create competition for their current starter, J.J. McCarthy, as the team looks to improve its quarterback position following McCarthy’s uneven 2025 season. This development arises amid concerns over McCarthy’s performance and injury struggles, with former Vikings defensive end Jared Allen publicly supporting the idea.
In the 2025 season, J.J. McCarthy completed 1,632 passing yards, 11 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions, alongside four rushing touchdowns, compiling a 6-4 record over 10 starts. Despite flashes of promise, McCarthy’s inconsistency and missed games have left the Vikings seeking additional options to solidify the quarterback role and boost offensive efficiency.
Jared Allen Advocates for Tua’s Arrival in Minnesota
Jared Allen, a Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee and former Vikings defensive star, suggested that Tua Tagovailoa could be a valuable addition to the Vikings’ roster. Speaking on the “Up&Adams” show, Allen pointed to Tua’s college championship success and potential compatibility with the Vikings’ offensive structure.
“I’ll be honest. I think people might hate me for it, I think Tua (Tagovailoa) is actually an interesting option,” Allen said on the “Up&Adams” show on Wednesday. “I mean, the dude won a championship in college, right? He shows signs. And if you bring you know, you put Kevin with that offense, you get a good offensive line, (it can work).”
— Jared Allen, Former NFL Defensive End and Hall of Famer
Allen’s perspective highlights a belief that aligning Tua with offensive weapons and solid protection could unlock better production than what the Vikings saw from McCarthy last season.
Tua Tagovailoa’s Recent Career and Trade Rumors
Tagovailoa signed a lucrative four-year contract extension worth $212.4 million with the Miami Dolphins in the 2024 offseason. However, his role diminished in 2025 as he lost the starting job late in the season, prompting speculation about a potential trade. These factors have contributed to the Vikings’ interest, as a changing situation in Miami could allow Minnesota to acquire a quarterback with proven talent.
Injury History Limits McCarthy’s Availability
J.J. McCarthy’s overall progress with the Vikings has been hampered by injuries. After being selected 10th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, he missed the entire rookie year due to a meniscus tear in his right knee. The 2025 season saw further missed time, including six consecutive games between Weeks 3 and 8 due to a high-ankle sprain, as well as absences from a concussion and a fractured right hand suffered late in the season.
Implications for the Vikings’ Quarterback Battle Ahead
The possibility of bringing Tua Tagovailoa into the fold signals that the Vikings are not fully confident in J.J. McCarthy’s ability to lead the offense consistently. Adding competition could create urgency for McCarthy to step up, while also offering the team a potential upgrade if Tagovailoa can regain his earlier form. How this quarterback competition evolves will significantly impact Minnesota’s offensive outlook and playoff hopes in the coming seasons.
HOF'er Jared Allen sizes up potential QB fits for the Vikings vs. JJ McCarthy 👀@heykayadams pic.twitter.com/YWnFiTsG1f
— Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow) February 11, 2026
