The Minnesota Vikings surprised many around the league by finishing 7-9 under first-year head coach Mike Zimmer last year. With quarterback Teddy Bridgewater entering his second-season, the hope is that Minnesota will make the jump to a winning record.
But for all of Bridgewater's strengths, his durability may not be one of them. He missed time due to an ankle injury last year and his slight frame makes him susceptible to nagging bumps and bruises. It would be smart for any team employing a somewhat smaller QB to have a capable backup and the Vikings traded Matt Cassel earlier this offseason.
The Vikings believe that they are set for the future with Bridgewater under center. But they know that no team can ever be too deep at quarterback. That is why it's possible that Bridgewater's long-term backup could be selected in this week's NFL Draft.
"The Vikings haven't scouted quarterbacks with the same urgency this spring, but they could still stand to acquire a developmental passer who could either become Bridgewater's long-term backup or a trade chip," ESPN Vikings reporter Ben Goessling wrote. "A big, talented quarterback such as South Alabama's Brandon Bridge could be someone the Vikings can mold into their system. Kafka has the arm to be that kind of player too, but if the Vikings want to bring in someone younger than 27, keep an eye on a late-round pick or an undrafted free agent who could land on the practice squad."
Again, the Vikings aren't in a big need for a quarterback. Bridgewater completed 64.4 percent of his passes for 2,919 yards, 14 touchdowns and 12 interceptions in 13 games last year. Sean Hill is an experienced No. 2 who won't kill your season if asked to start a game or two. But getting a younger, less expensive option who could be around for the long haul isn't a terrible course of action for Minnesota.
