In their quest for a future quarterback, the Minnesota Vikings are actively exploring trade possibilities ahead of the NFL draft. The team's priority is to secure a higher spot on the draft board to ensure they can select their preferred candidate. An insider has revealed that a potential deal with the New England Patriots hinges on the availability of Jayden Daniels, a highly sought-after player.

Sportskeeda's Tony Pauline, who has been closely following the situation, reported that the Patriots possess a keen interest in Jayden Daniels. If Daniels is not on the table, it is believed that the Patriots would be willing to trade down from their current third overall pick. This revelation has fueled speculation that the Vikings could strike a deal with the Patriots, given their need for a quarterback.

Pauline further noted that during the NFL combine in Indianapolis, rumors circulated that if the Patriots were unable to secure Daniels, they would look to trade deep into the first round for Michael Penix Jr. However, recent reports suggest that the Patriots, if engaged in a trade with teams like the Vikings or Broncos, might lean towards selecting Penix in the middle of the first round.

The prevailing theory, shaped over the past months, is that the Washington Commanders will likely draft Jayden Daniels with their second overall pick, as predicted by sportsbooks. This would leave the Patriots disappointed but eager to do business with the Vikings, possibly in exchange for a significant haul that would grant them the opportunity to acquire Drake Maye from North Carolina.

While other quarterback-needy teams, such as the Denver Broncos or Las Vegas Raiders, could also pursue a trade with the Patriots, it appears more likely that Minnesota will be their preferred partner. The Vikings possess ample draft capital and, being in a different conference, allow the Patriots to avoid competition within the AFC.

Tony Pauline summed up the situation by suggesting that any team seeking to trade with the Patriots would have to overpay, as the owner's desire is to secure a quarterback rather than move away from the third overall pick.

As the draft approaches in three days' time, all eyes are on the Minnesota Vikings as they strategize their trade options with the New England Patriots. While Michigan's J.J. McCarthy remains a strong contender for the Vikings, the team is leaving no stone unturned in their pursuit of a promising quarterback for the future.

In the midst of the anticipation surrounding the draft, intriguing conspiracy theories about the Vikings have also emerged, adding an extra layer of excitement to the upcoming event.