One of the most impressive performances of the 2023 NFL season occurred in Week 9. After being removed as the starting quarterback of the Arizona Cardinals, Joshua Dobbs was traded to the Minnesota Vikings ahead of the trade deadline.
Dobbs was expected to eventually take over as the starter in Minnesota as Kirk Cousins suffered a season-ending Achilles injury in Week 8 against the Green Bay Packers. But, since he didn’t take any practice reps during the week, he was the backup to Jaren Hall.
That plan went out the window once Hall suffered an injury, forcing Dobbs into the lineup. Things got off to a rocky start, as he took a safety out of the gate. But, after that, he played better than anyone could have expected.
Dobbs ended up leading the Vikings to a 31-28 victory over the Atlanta Falcons on the road. It was the team’s fourth straight win, as they have overcome some major obstacles to get their 2023 season back on track.
In relief of Hall, Dobbs completed 66.7 percent of his passes for 158 yards and two touchdowns. He also added 66 yards on seven carries with another score. It was a truly impressive performance by the newly acquired Vikings quarterback, who saw running back Cam Akers and wide receiver K.J. Osborn have to leave the game with injuries.
The performance was so good, that the Vikings may be considering a change at the quarterback position. According to a former NFL executive who spoke to NFL Analysis Network, Dobbs could be their signal caller beyond the 2023 season.
“The Vikings have fallen in love with Josh Dobbs since they acquired him. I actually think they could stick with him over Kirk Cousins after this season. It’s certainly something to watch.”
Given how well Dobbs has performed this season in difficult circumstances, he is someone Minnesota should consider as a long-term option. He played well for a rebuilding Cardinals squad despite having limited time to learn their playbook as well, following a trade from the Cleveland Browns after training camp.
It would certainly be worthwhile for the Vikings to explore what Dobbs could look like with a full offseason of preparation and healthy skill position players. Star wide receiver Justin Jefferson is still not in the lineup, as he would raise Dobbs’ performance without a doubt.
Still only 28 years old, Dobbs is just entering the prime of his career. If he can help lead the Vikings to another playoff appearance this season, he will be a strong candidate to start for them, or another franchise, in the NFL in 2024.
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