In a surprise roster move Friday the Minnesota Vikings signed quarterback Jordan Ta’amu.
Ta’amu is the reigning XFL offensive player of the year after leading the Washington Defenders with 1,894 passing yards, 14 touchdowns and three interceptions in 10 games. He also ran for 298 yards and three touchdowns.
The Vikings haven’t confirmed the signing but the XFL has with a press release.
The XFL has announced that two additional players from XFL teams have signed NFL contracts. Arlington defensive lineman Tomasi Laulile has signed with the San Francisco 49ers and D.C. Defenders quarterback Jordan Ta’amu has signed with the Minnesota Vikings. #XFLtoNFL pic.twitter.com/zCiv6edE1w
— UFL Communications Department (@UFL_PR) August 18, 2023
Ta’amu has had numerous opportunities with NFL teams since 2019, including with the Texans, Chiefs (twice), Lions (twice), Commanders and Panthers. He has yet to earn a spot on a 53-man roster/practice squad.
Where he fits in with the Vikings and why the Vikings signed him is unclear. Kirk Cousins, Nick Mullens and rookie Jaren Hall are the other quarterbacks on Minnesota’s roster.
The 6-foot-3 quarterback was a star at Ole Miss in 2017 and 2018, having played his first two years of college the JUCO level for New Mexico Military Academy. In just two years at Ole Miss he threw for 5,600 yards and 30 touchdowns.
He’s the third former D.C. Defenders player to sign this summer, joining wide receiver Lucky Jackson and running back Abram Smith.
