In the heart of Minnesota, where Gopher pride runs deep, former University of Minnesota quarterback Max Brosmer has become a fan favorite, capturing the hearts of Vikings supporters as he battles for a coveted spot on the team’s 53-man roster. Signed as an undrafted free agent (UDFA) after the NFL Draft, Brosmer faces a steep climb in a crowded quarterback room featuring J.J. McCarthy, Sam Howell, and Brett Rypien. Yet, through two electrifying preseason games, the ex-Gopher has turned heads, proving he’s more than just a feel-good story—he’s a legitimate contender.
In the Vikings’ preseason opener against the Houston Texans, Brosmer was the last of four quarterbacks to take the field. Despite limited snaps, he made an immediate impact, completing 5 of 8 passes for 47 yards and delivering the team’s only touchdown pass of the game. His poise and precision hinted at the potential that made him a standout at Minnesota, setting the stage for a bigger opportunity in the next game.
I mean… pic.twitter.com/DEdHR8HgyT
— Alec Lewis (@alec_lewis) August 17, 2025
With J.J. McCarthy sidelined for the Vikings’ second preseason matchup against the New England Patriots, Brosmer seized his moment. Playing the entire second half, he showcased his command of the offense, completing 15 of 27 passes for 156 yards. Though he threw one interception, his performance earned a respectable 66.2 grade from Pro Football Focus (PFF) over 39 snaps. In stark contrast, Sam Howell, acquired via a draft-week trade for a fifth-round pick, struggled mightily, managing just 1 of 5 passes for 13 yards and an interception. On that day, Brosmer wasn’t just a backup—he looked like Minnesota’s best quarterback.
Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell couldn’t hide his enthusiasm during Saturday’s broadcast, praising Brosmer’s decisiveness: “Max Brosmer is not waiting to see if the WR is open. He’s throwing some of these balls before the WR breaks. He has command of the offense.” For a rookie UDFA, such praise from a head coach speaks volumes.
While Howell’s trade value and draft pedigree make him a near-lock for the roster, the competition for the QB3 spot has become a two-man race between Brosmer and veteran Brett Rypien. Through two games, Brosmer’s stats outshine Rypien’s: 20 of 35 (57.1%) for 203 yards, one touchdown, and one interception compared to Rypien’s 8 of 15 (53.3%) for 89 yards, no touchdowns, and no interceptions. At roughly five years younger than the 29-year-old Rypien, Brosmer offers a higher ceiling and long-term potential, making him an enticing option for a franchise looking to unearth a diamond in the rough.
Securing a true backup quarterback role as an undrafted rookie is a rare feat, but Brosmer’s preseason performances suggest he’s no ordinary UDFA. His ability to read defenses, anticipate routes, and deliver under pressure has turned the Vikings’ quarterback competition upside down. While practice reps and joint scrimmages play a significant role in roster decisions, Brosmer’s youth, upside, and undeniable on-field production make a compelling case for his inclusion on the final roster.
Minnesota fans, already enamored with their former Gopher hero, are witnessing the rise of a potential NFL gem. Whether he earns the QB3 spot or not, Max Brosmer’s 203-yard preseason shock has sent a clear message: he’s here to stay, and his NFL journey is just beginning. The Vikings may have found their next hometown hero, and the mayhem he’s causing in the quarterback room is only the start.