In a surprising move prior to the NFL trade deadline, the Arizona Cardinals have traded quarterback Joshua Dobbs to the Minnesota Vikings. The deal was struck while the Cardinals were in Minnesota practicing against the Vikings, making it a swift transaction.

The Cardinals acquired Dobbs from the Cleveland Browns a few months ago, trading a fifth-round pick in exchange for Dobbs and a Browns' seventh-round pick. However, with the impending return of their star quarterback Kyler Murray and the Vikings facing quarterback issues after Kirk Cousins' Achilles injury, the Cardinals decided to part ways with Dobbs.

The trade involves the Cardinals sending a conditional 2024 seventh-round pick to the Vikings in return for a 2024 sixth-round pick. However, the trade is still pending Dobbs' physical examination. Coach Jonathan Gannon expressed gratitude towards Dobbs for his contributions to the team, calling him an ultimate professional and wishing him success in Minnesota.

Dobbs started in the first eight games for the Cardinals following his arrival but was benched in favor of either Murray or rookie Clayton Tune for their upcoming game against the Browns. Gannon mentioned that the Cardinals will be signing another quarterback, as Tune is currently the only quarterback on the 53-man roster. Murray, who remains on the PUP (Physically Unable to Perform) list, is unlikely to be activated solely for a backup role.

Although Dobbs had a strong start in his Cardinals career, his performance declined in the last four games. In his eight-game stint, he completed 62.8 percent of his passes for 1,569 yards, eight touchdowns, and five interceptions, earning a passer rating of 81.2. Dobbs also emerged as the Cardinals' second-leading rusher, gaining 258 yards and scoring three touchdowns on 47 carries.

The Cardinals have made additional roster moves following the trade, signing offensive lineman Vitaliy Gurman to the practice squad. Additionally, they released defensive lineman Jacob Slade and cornerback Quavian White. Wide receiver Jeff Smith and running back Damien Williams have been placed on the practice squad's injured reserve due to injuries, with Williams previously serving as the team's backup running back in James Conner's absence.

With the trade of Dobbs, the Cardinals are making adjustments to bolster their quarterback options while looking forward to the return of Kyler Murray. As for Dobbs, he is ready to embrace the opportunity with the Vikings and continue his football journey in Minnesota.