NFL executive explains why Vikings QB Joshua Dobbs could get big payday

Minnesota Vikings quarterback Joshua Dobbs is set to become a free agent at the end of the 2023 season, opening the door for him to secure a solid payday.

The 28-year-old, who has become one of the best stories of the season in the NFL, could land a nice deal given his growing status as a “high-level” backup quarterback, as one AFC executive sees it.

“He’s earned high-level No. 2 status,” the executive told ESPN. “A guy who can start games for you if you need. And that pays pretty good money.”

Dobbs has only been in the NFL since 2017, but he’s already something of a journeyman quarterback. He has spent time with eight organizations already, though it’s worth noting that he has only seen game action for four — the Pittsburgh Steelers, Tennessee Titans, Arizona Cardinals and Vikings.

After starting the 2023 season with the Cardinals, Dobbs was traded to the Vikings ahead of the trade deadline. Minnesota needed some help at the quarterback position after losing Kirk Cousins for the season, so the team added Dobbs.

Rookie quarterback Jaren Hall was next up on the depth chart for Minnesota after Cousins went down, so he got the start for the squad this past weekend, but he had to leave the game due to a concussion.

That opened the door for Dobbs to enter, and he made the most of the opportunity. The newcomer completed 20 of his 30 pass attempts for 158 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions. He also rushed for 66 yards and a score.

The performance helped the Vikings beat the Atlanta Falcons on the road, moving Minnesota to 5-4 on the season. The squad is entirely alive for a playoff bid in the NFC.

Dobbs is now expected to start for the Vikings moving forward, giving him more opportunities to show the league what he’s all about. While reaching the playoffs with Minnesota is likely a top priority for him, he also has a chance to elevate his stock ahead of free agency.

Across nine total appearances this season, the former fourth-round pick has completed 63.2 percent of his passes for 1,727 yards, 10 touchdowns and five interceptions. On the ground, he has added 324 yards and four touchdowns.

The future looks bright for Dobbs.