In the tumultuous landscape of the NFL, where teams are constantly in search of a franchise quarterback, Joshua Dobbs is making a compelling case for himself. Over the years, he has weathered setbacks, from being overlooked by multiple teams to functioning as an emergency option. However, his recent performances with the Minnesota Vikings are turning heads and could redefine his career trajectory.
In just two games and a limited practice with the Vikings, Dobbs has exhibited remarkable prowess. In last week’s 31-28 victory over the Atlanta Falcons and Sunday’s 27-19 win against the New Orleans Saints, Dobbs not only showcased a dynamic playing style but also demonstrated leadership qualities that are capturing the attention of both fans and NFL insiders.
Despite stepping into the starting role with only four days of preparation, Dobbs has proven his mettle. His stat line boasts 43 completions on 64 attempts, totaling 426 yards and three touchdowns through the air. On the ground, he has contributed 110 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns. Beyond the numbers, the Vikings have praised his leadership and quick adaptation to Kevin O’Connell’s offensive scheme.
O’Connell, the Vikings’ offensive coordinator, emphasized Dobbs’ impact on the team, saying, “It was Josh Dobbs out there playing quarterback. We saw it again today, game-changing plays with his athleticism were really a defining thing to kind of fill in some of the gaps for us offensively in the first half.”
The Vikings’ coaching staff envisions significant growth potential for Dobbs, especially with the return of key players like wide receiver Justin Jefferson. Despite the challenges he faced last week, Dobbs demonstrated his commitment and work ethic, earning accolades for his preparation and performance.
While Dobbs’ sample size as a starter is relatively small, the circumstances surrounding his opportunities are noteworthy. Each of his three stints as a starter has come under duress, with injuries or emergencies prompting his insertion into the lineup. However, the current situation with the Vikings presents a unique opportunity for Dobbs to establish himself as a long-term solution at quarterback.
This potential has not gone unnoticed around the league. One general manager remarked, “He’s smart and has leadership qualities and skill, but you have to see how those all come out and blend together over a season.” The Vikings, having traded for Dobbs, appear committed to exploring his capabilities as a starter, offering him the chance to lead a talented roster.
As Dobbs approaches free agency in the coming offseason, his performance in the remaining games will be pivotal in determining his market value. While veteran quarterbacks like Kirk Cousins, Ryan Tannehill, and Baker Mayfield are set to hit the market, Dobbs has the advantage of showcasing a diverse skill set, combining pocket passing, improvisation, and the ability to contribute to the running game.
Speculation surrounds what a potential long-term deal for Dobbs could look like. Comparisons are drawn to past situations, such as Case Keenum’s journey with the Minnesota Vikings in 2017, where a successful “prove it” season led to a two-year deal with the Denver Broncos. Dobbs could potentially command a similar deal, with figures ranging from $50 million to $60 million over two years.
As the season unfolds, Dobbs will not only be evaluated for his on-field performance but also for how many other teams take notice of his capabilities. The quarterback market is notoriously unpredictable, and a strong finish to the season could elevate Dobbs to a coveted position, with multiple teams vying for his services.
In the ever-evolving landscape of the NFL, Joshua Dobbs is proving that resilience, combined with talent and opportunity, can reshape a career. As he navigates the remaining games of the season, Dobbs has a chance to solidify himself as a sought-after commodity in the competitive market for franchise quarterbacks.
