The Minnesota Vikings are seemingly playing their quarterback situation close to the vest. Less than a week after being unceremoniously disposed of in the NFC Championship Game, Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer is not prepared to commit to Case Keenum as the team’s starter moving forward.
Mike Zimmer didn't exactly endorse Case Keenum today. pic.twitter.com/4aFin9rhOH
— Andrew Krammer (@Andrew_Krammer) January 23, 2018
Talk about failing to publicly have the back of a quarterback that led your to within one win of a Super Bowl appearance.
Replacing an injured Sam Bradford earlier in the season, Keenum went on to throw 22 touchdowns compared to seven interceptions en route to leading Minnesota to an 11-3 record in 14 starts.
As with Bradford and Teddy Bridgewater, Keenum is slated to become a free agent in March. He also has not committed to re-signing with the Vikings in free agency.
This could very well be an example of both sides playing the media game in hopes of coming out on top in contract negotiations. Minnesota has the option of franchising Keenum, guaranteeing him north of $24 million next season.
It could also decide to let him test what promises to be a strong market for his services. Though, that could potentially lead to the Vikings being placed behind the proverbial eight-ball at quarterback this offseason.