Minnesota Vikings reportedly explored a trade for Justin Herbert before acquiring Kirk Cousins from the Las Vegas Raiders (Getty Images)
Despite sitting at 0-8, the Chargers reportedly refused to entertain an inquiry from the Minnesota Vikings before they acquired Kirk Cousins from the Las Vegas Raiders at Tuesday’s trade deadline. NFL insider Jordan Schultz revealed that Los Angeles immediately rejected Minnesota’s interest.
Minnesota explored three quarterbacks before completing its deal for Cousins, according to Schultz. Citing multiple league sources, Schultz reported that the Vikings “also inquired about Justin Herbert, Daniel Jones and Geno Smith before striking a deal” for Cousins. Justin Herbert ’s difficult season has not changed the Los Angeles Chargers’ position on their franchise quarterback. The response is significant, particularly with Herbert struggling behind an underperforming offense. the Chargers made one thing clear: Herbert was not available, even with their season falling apart While the Vikings explored several quarterback options. The Vikings also contacted the Chargers about Herbert, the Indianapolis Colts about Daniel Jones and the New York Jets about Geno Smith.
Harbaugh also pushed back against suggestions that his team had stopped competing despite its 0-8 record.
“The Chargers, I’m told, immediately shut down all inquiries for Herbert, who also has a no-trade clause,” Schultz reported. “Too much pressure on the quarterback, negative plays in the running game and the sacks in the passing game,” Harbaugh said. The responses varied. Indianapolis listened but did not want to trade Jones, while the Jets considered Smith too important to their team and the development of other players. Herbert’s contract makes the situation even more interesting. The quarterback has a say in any potential move, meaning the Chargers would need his approval to complete a trade. Their immediate rejection also suggests the front office was not interested in testing the market for its most important player.