In a move that has sent shockwaves through the college football world, Keaton Slovis, BYU’s standout quarterback, announced today that he will be transferring to the Minnesota Vikings for the next phase of his football career. Slovis, who has been the face of BYU’s offense for the past few seasons, will now take his talents to the professional ranks, marking a dramatic and unexpected transition from college football to the NFL.
Slovis, a former USC quarterback who transferred to BYU in 2022, was highly regarded for his arm strength, leadership, and poise in the pocket. His performances at BYU, particularly in 2023, garnered widespread attention from NFL scouts and analysts, positioning him as one of the most intriguing quarterback prospects in recent years. While he had one year left of eligibility at BYU, Slovis made the decision to forgo it and declare for the NFL, setting the stage for his move to the Vikings.
The announcement was made via Slovis’s personal social media accounts, where he expressed his gratitude for his time at BYU and explained the reasoning behind his decision.
“It’s been an incredible journey here at BYU, and I’ll always cherish the memories I’ve made with my teammates, coaches, and the amazing fans of BYU Nation. However, after careful consideration and a lot of reflection, I’ve decided that it’s time to take the next step in my career,” Slovis wrote. “I’m excited to announce that I’ll be transferring to the Minnesota Vikings, where I’ll continue to chase my dream of playing at the highest level. This is a huge opportunity for me, and I’m ready for the challenge ahead.”
A Surprising Move to the NFL
Slovis’s decision to transfer to an NFL team, bypassing further college football eligibility, has taken many by surprise. While it’s common for underclassmen to enter the NFL draft after successful college careers, Slovis had one more year of eligibility remaining at BYU. The move to the Vikings, who have a solid quarterback room led by Kirk Cousins, raises questions about Slovis’s immediate role on the team. However, insiders suggest that the Vikings view Slovis as a promising prospect who can develop under the guidance of experienced coaches.
Slovis’s college career has been filled with impressive achievements. He transferred to BYU after a solid stint at USC, where he initially showed flashes of brilliance as a freshman and sophomore. At BYU, he quickly became the team’s focal point, leading the Cougars to a competitive position in the Big 12 and showcasing his ability to make all the necessary throws. In 2023, he threw for over 3,500 yards and 30 touchdowns, earning praise from analysts for his decision-making and deep-ball accuracy.
Vikings’ Future and Slovis’s Development
The Minnesota Vikings’ decision to bring Slovis into their quarterback mix speaks to the team’s long-term vision. While Cousins is currently under contract, the Vikings have been actively seeking young quarterbacks to develop for the future. Slovis, who is known for his calm demeanor, football IQ, and work ethic, fits the mold of a player who could eventually compete for a starting role in the years to come.
Vikings general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah expressed excitement about the acquisition. “Keaton is a talented quarterback with a high ceiling. We’ve been following his progress closely, and we believe he has the tools to be a successful NFL quarterback. We’re excited to add him to our roster and see how he develops in our system.”
A New Chapter for Slovis
For Slovis, the transition to the NFL represents the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. Despite the uncertainties surrounding his professional journey, he remains confident in his ability to contribute to the Vikings’ future success. His move marks the beginning of what could be a thrilling new chapter in his career, with many expecting big things from the former BYU star.
As the NFL offseason continues, all eyes will be on Keaton Slovis and his journey with the Minnesota Vikings, as he looks to carve out a successful career at the highest level of football.
