So, What Happens to Kellen Mond?
Ted Schwerzler
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I think it’s pretty safe to say that Mike Zimmer didn’t have much positivity towards his recently drafted quarterback. It’s also not a secret that he didn’t like the veteran either. Now gone, and so too the guy that drafted Mond 66th overall last year, what does the new regime make of their holdover project?
In one of the most widely discussed topics this offseason, Minnesota must decide on what Kirk Cousins’ future looks like. Do they keep him for one year with a massive cap hit? Do they extend him and push the dollars down the line? Do they trade him? What happens to the starter? Then, like a domino effect, what happens to the guy seemingly next in line?
Last season the Vikings brought in veteran Sean Mannion to act as the backup for Cousins. He had experience playing in Minnesota and, while essentially a retread, offered much more NFL exposure than the rookie had seen. Unfortunately, though, it limited Mond’s time to develop as he was active for just a single game.
By the end of the year, Mike Zimmer had allowed Mond to throw just three passes, two of which were completed, and closed his chapter by suggesting he didn’t want to see him anymore. A crippling take from a confidence standpoint, it was evident that Zimmer was on the way out and had no desire to mince words. It is worth wondering if a lack of development may have been the impact of a staff led by a coach with no desire to put in the time.
Rather than focusing on the shortcomings of the previous staff, it is worth wondering what now happens to a guy tied to substantial draft capital. Mond makes just over $5 million for the duration of his rookie deal, but Minnesota invested a second-round pick on him. Drafting 12th this season, they could opt for their pick at the position despite other needs. Another quarterback in the middle rounds may be appealing. Then again, it all could be moot if the decision ends up being an extension for Cousins.
Finding value in the middle round of the NFL draft is a significant determinant regarding the strength of a draft class. Needing to hit on a first-round pick is an obvious must, but being able to do so later defines a scouting and analytic focus that separates from the opposition. Seeing Mond as a bust or throwaway player this early would be disappointing.
There’s no doubt quarterbacks will be brought in for training camp whether Kirk Cousins is rostered or not. Mond won’t be simply given the backup job, and another drafted arm may be Kevin O’Connell’s desired project. It will be interesting to see what the narrative from fresh eyes and assumed commitment is regarding a player that was so quickly cast aside.
Plenty of drafted quarterbacks find themselves out of the league, and maybe that’s the eventual path for Mond. There were believers in the room at one point, though, and the level that those entering join the group should be worth keeping an eye on.
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