While the Minnesota Vikings’ spotlight has largely been fixed on starting quarterback JJ McCarthy as he gears up for his anticipated regular-season debut next month, another quarterback is quietly stealing the show. Undrafted rookie Max Brosmer has emerged as a compelling storyline, turning heads in training camp and delivering a performance that has the NFL buzzing.
Last weekend, Brosmer showcased his potential in a preseason clash against the Houston Texans, completing 5 of 8 passes for 47 yards and a touchdown, earning an impressive 118.2 passer rating. His poise and precision were undeniable, and his standout moment came Wednesday when he faced a relentless blitz from the New England Patriots. Unfazed, Brosmer launched a perfectly placed deep ball down the left sideline to receiver Tim Jones, further proving his ability to thrive under pressure.
Alec Lewis of The Athletic has been vocal about Brosmer’s rapid rise, suggesting that another strong showing in the final two weeks of the preseason could lock in his spot on the Vikings’ 53-man roster. “Undrafted rookie quarterback Max Brosmer built on his impressive preseason debut,” Lewis wrote on Thursday. “He sounds like a longtime professional. He discussed Wednesday how much he’s learned from [head coach Kevin] O’Connell, quarterbacks coach Josh McCown, and the rest of the staff in a short stint. Replicate his production Saturday or even next week, and he’ll further cement a job on the 53.”
Brosmer’s inclusion in Lewis’ latest 53-man roster projection marks a shift from earlier predictions, a testament to his unexpected brilliance. Lewis highlighted Brosmer’s arm talent, field vision, and decision-making as qualities that far exceed what’s typically expected from an undrafted free agent. “Brosmer going undrafted is head-scratching, to put it nicely,” Lewis noted. “By comparison, the Texans’ Graham Mertz, who threw three interceptions Saturday, was selected in the sixth round. Brosmer sees the field, processing the defensive picture in a way you cannot teach.”
Behind closed doors, Vikings coaches have reportedly been raving about Brosmer’s football IQ and quick adaptation to the professional level. His performances, both in public and private, have sparked conversations about his potential as a reliable asset at the NFL’s most critical position.
With JJ McCarthy entrenched as the starter and Sam Howell, who went 11/13 for 105 yards in his preseason debut, solidified as the backup, the fight for the third quarterback spot is heating up. NFL rules now allow teams to dress an emergency third quarterback on game day, increasing the likelihood that Minnesota will carry an extra signal-caller on the roster. This sets the stage for a head-to-head competition between Brosmer and veteran Brett Rypien.
At 29, Rypien brings experience but lacks the upside of the young Georgia native. Brosmer’s superior preseason performance and his ability to outshine expectations give him a clear edge. “If the Vikings don’t add him to the 53-man, they’d risk losing a reliable player at the game’s most critical position,” Lewis warned.
Brosmer’s journey from undrafted rookie to potential roster lock is a testament to his skill and determination. With two preseason games left, all eyes will be on whether he can maintain his momentum and secure his place on the team. If his recent performances are any indication, Brosmer is not just fighting for a roster spot—he’s proving he belongs in the NFL.