Vikings team reporter thinks backup QB could be one of the most hotly contested jobs in training camp

As Vikings team reporter Eric Smith pointed out, Kirk Cousins is locked-in to the starting job barring anything very unexpected.

Vikings team reporter Eric Smith did his “Monday Morning Mailbag,” and one of the questions asked was regarding the quarterback position.

As Smith pointed out, Kirk Cousins is locked-in to the starting job barring anything very unexpected. But after that, the position battle for the backup quarterback spot will be an interesting one.

Smith thinks the positional battle for the second quarterback spot on the depth chart could be one of the most hotly contested jobs in training camp. Here’s what Smith said:

“Sean Mannion, the backup in 2019, could get the nod if he performs well. The Vikings know the professionalism and support he provides for Kirk based on last season.

Browning spent 2019 on the practice squad as a rookie, and many are interested to see how that helped him progress as he heads into Year 2. The next month or so will be critical in his development as he tries to win the job behind Cousins.

Nate Stanley was a seventh-round selection and is also in the mix for the No. 2 gig. He had a strong career — and won a lot of games — at Iowa, but likely have to deal with the rookie transition to the NFL.”

Cousins has the starting job, but anyone from Mannion, Browning and Stanley could possibly win the spot. Mannion is the probable candidate at the moment.