After signing Kyler Murray as free agency quarterback, Minnesota Vikings may still look for ways to add depth at quarterback this offseason. Team officials recently held discussions with Georgia Tech quarterback Haynes King – an exciting and speedy prospect expected to enter this year’s draft – before engaging him for interviews and discussions about potential trade options for Kyler Murray.
Impressive Pro Day Performance and Multiple Meetings
Haynes King showcased his skills during Georgia Tech’s pro day, impressing scouts and team representatives alike. He demonstrated remarkable accuracy by completing 52 of 54 passes during positional drills. Over the course of two days, King met with several NFL teams including the New England Patriots, Dallas Cowboys, Indianapolis Colts, and the Minnesota Vikings. Scouts have praised his leadership qualities and toughness throughout the evaluation process.
While pro day and combine numbers don’t always tell the full story, King’s consistency in front of scouts and coaches adds confidence in his passing abilities, which had been questioned prior to the draft season.
Athleticism and College Career Highlights
King’s greatest strengths are his athleticism and resilience. At the NFL Scouting Combine, he clocked a 4.46-second 40-yard dash, highlighting his explosive potential as a quarterback who can extend plays with his legs.
After beginning his collegiate tenure at Texas A&M alongside former Vikings pick Kellen Mond, King transferred to Georgia Tech in 2023. In 36 games within the ACC, he accumulated over 7,900 passing yards while maintaining a touchdown-to-interception ratio of 55-24.
His rushing ability is equally impressive, with more than 2,200 rushing yards and 36 touchdowns on the ground. In his final college season alone, King rushed for 953 yards and scored 15 touchdowns, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities.
Scouting Insights and Playing Style
King has earned recognition for his accuracy and ability to make throws both on the move and under pressure. His repeated execution of precise routes, such as the post right pattern, demonstrated his poise and timing. Observers noted that King rarely missed his target during workouts and displayed a high level of comfort rolling out of the pocket.
Though he has some areas to refine—particularly in mechanics, accuracy consistency, and ball security—King’s toughness, mobility, and leadership stand out as promising traits. These attributes point toward potential development as either a late-round draft pick or an undrafted free agent with a role as a versatile offensive asset.
Role with the Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings currently have three quarterbacks under contract: newcomer Kyler Murray, last year’s starter J.J. McCarthy, and Max Brosmer, who serves as developmental depth. While there are questions surrounding the consistency of both McCarthy and Murray, head coach Kevin O’Connell benefits from having two viable starting options.
If added to the roster, King would likely join the Vikings as a developmental player. He could potentially replace Brosmer or serve in a multifaceted role similar to Taysom Hill’s, contributing not only at quarterback but also on special teams and other offensive packages.
During O’Connell’s time coaching the Vikings, the team has drafted two quarterbacks, and King would be the third under his tenure. Expectations would center around growth and learning rather than immediate starting responsibilities.
Outlook and Potential Impact
Considered either late round selection or undrafted rookie, King represents an intriguing athletic talent with potential upside. Should he join the Vikings he would play an essential part in helping identify and foster young quarterbacks capable of contributing in the near future.
Minnesota appears committed to exploring additional quarterback prospects beyond Kyler Murray to increase depth and versatility within their roster.