Report: Josh McCown ‘likely to leave’ Vikings for OC job…

Josh McCown Expected to Depart Vikings for Offensive Coordinator Position

In the ever-evolving landscape of the NFL coaching carousel, rumors are swirling about Josh McCown, the Minnesota Vikings’ quarterbacks coach, potentially leaving the franchise to pursue an opportunity as an offensive coordinator. This move comes at a crucial time for the Vikings as they prepare for the offseason and seek to maximize their offensive potential moving forward.

Background on McCown’s Role with the Vikings*

Josh McCown joined the Vikings coaching staff in 2021, bringing with him a wealth of experience as both a player and a coach. Having enjoyed a 17-year career as an NFL quarterback, McCown’s transition to coaching was seen as a natural progression for a player known for his leadership, work ethic, and football IQ. Despite only having a couple of seasons under his belt in a coaching capacity, McCown quickly made an impression on both players and coaching staff.

McCown’s most significant work has been with the development of the Vikings’ quarterbacks, helping to elevate Kirk Cousins’ game while aiding rookie Kellen Mond in adjusting to professional football. His understanding of the quarterback position and ability to communicate effectively with players has made him a valuable asset to the franchise. However, whispers of his potential exit are gaining momentum as he is linked to potential offensive coordinator positions around the league.

Reasons for the Move

The allure of becoming an offensive coordinator is undoubtedly tempting for McCown. It would represent a significant career advancement and a chance to have a more substantial impact on a team’s offensive strategy. Many NFL teams are currently seeking fresh ideas and innovative thinkers to revamp their offenses in an era where offenses need to be diverse, adaptable, and high-scoring to win games.

In particular, McCown’s aggressive play-style and forward-thinking mentality are traits that many teams covet. His reputation as a quarterback who has a unique understanding of offensive schemes could be a factor that draws interested franchises to pursue him. As teams look to modernize their offenses or improve their overall production, McCown presents a prospect who is not only relatable to young quarterbacks but also equipped with the knowledge required to design effective offensive game plans.

Potential Destinations

As the search for offensive coordinators heats up across the league, several teams appear to be eyeing McCown as a prime candidate for the role. Franchises with a history of prioritizing offensive success or integrating young quarterbacks into their plans could consider McCown to be a strong fit. Teams like the Indianapolis Colts and New York Giants, who are navigating transitional phases, may see McCown’s experience and fresh perspective as the ideal remedy for their offensive struggles.

Moreover, with the recent firing of head coaches and subsequent reshuffling of coaching personnel, the demand for qualified offensive minds is expected to escalate. It is imperative for teams to find someone who can align with their communication style and resonate with their players, both of which McCown has demonstrated during his tenure with the Vikings.

**What This Means for the Vikings**

Should McCown depart for an offensive coordinator role, the Vikings will need to quickly assess their options for filling the void left by his exit. The team is still in its quest to find ways to enhance its offensive productivity, particularly with some uncertainly surrounding the future of Cousins and the development of other young quarterbacks on the roster. Finding a replacement who can maintain the momentum established by McCown and continue to nurture the talent on the bench will be vital for the Vikings’ success moving forward.

In addition, the Vikings will also need to re-evaluate their broader offensive strategy to ensure that it aligns with their personnel and future ambitions. Integrating a new offensive coordinator will necessitate a smooth transition, as continuity is key in fostering a successful offensive unit.

**Conclusion**

As the NFL coaching carousel spins once more, Josh McCown’s potential departure from the Minnesota Vikings could herald a new chapter for both him and the team. The opportunity to take on a more significant role as an offensive coordinator is enticing for McCown, one that aligns perfectly with his career aspirations. For the Vikings, while losing McCown would be a setback, it also opens the door for new possibilities in their coaching staff and has the potential to augment their offensive dynamics moving forward. Time will tell where this next phase of McCown’s coaching career will take him, but it undoubtedly will be a hot topic of conversation as the offseason unfolds.