Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell reveals why he rejected Aaron Rodgers as he lifts lid on talks with veteran QB

Kevin O'Connell's decision to prioritize the development of young quarterback JJ McCarthy over signing veteran Aaron Rodgers could influence punters to consider betting on the Minnesota Vikings' upcoming season performance. With McCarthy at the helm, the team's dynamics may shift, making them a potential dark horse in the league, depending on how well he adapts and leads the team.

Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell has revealed he turned down the chance to sign Aaron Rodgers as he's focused on doing what's best for the 'future' of the franchise. Rodgers, who finally signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers this week, was linked with a move to the Vikings after being released by the New York Jets back in March.

Reports suggested Minnesota was the 41-year-old's preferred landing spot, yet O'Connell has instead opted to go with JJ McCarthy, 22, as his starting quarterback for next season. And the Vikings coach says he explained his thinking to Rodgers, whom he considers a good friend after knowing each other for close to two decades.

'When there was an opportunity, when him and I connected this offseason just to kind of talk about what that would look like, we had a lot of great dialogue about it, but it always was centered around what was best not only for the present in the Minnesota Vikings organization, but the future,' O'Connell said about the four-time MVP on Minneapolis radio station KFAN-FM 100.3.

McCarthy is now set to be promoted and fill the void left by Darnold over a year since he was drafted by the Vikings with the 10th overall pick. 'He's having a great spring,' O'Connell said about his new quarterback. 'We're pretty darn close to having a good feel for where he's at. 'He's had a great offseason. He's healthy, strong, throwing the ball great, fundamentals — everything you hope for in the spring.