The Minnesota Vikings are set to host a quarterback competition between J.J. McCarthy and Kyler Murray. This comes after two difficult years for McCarthy.
It was previously assumed that Murray would take over the starting quarterback role, but that may not be the case. NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero reports that the Vikings will host a true competition this offseason.
A ‘Wide Open’ Competition
Pelissero stated that the Vikings envision a true competition between Murray and McCarthy. He added that both players will believe they can win the job. The quarterback room is expected to be very competitive.
Pelissero said that the coaching staff is keeping an open mind and that the competition is truly wide open.
McCarthy’s NFL Struggles
McCarthy has struggled in his two years in the NFL. The Vikings chose him 10th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft.
He has had self-inflicted struggles. He has thrown 12 interceptions in 10 games.
McCarthy also missed his entire rookie campaign due to a knee injury and dealt with multiple injuries in his second season.
Vikings Seek QB Depth
Head coach Kevin O’Connell called for more depth and competition in the QB room in January. Interim general manager Rob Brzezinski said in February that the franchise would explore every opportunity at quarterback in the offseason.
That opportunity came with Murray’s release by the Arizona Cardinals. Murray signed a league minimum deal with the Vikings.
Murray’s Experience
Murray is a two-time Pro Bowler with seven seasons of NFL experience. He was likely viewed by many as the unanointed starter.
Per Pelissero, the Vikings’ jury is still out on the most important starting spot on the roster.
Other QB Competitions
There are other quarterback competitions expected to take place this offseason. Two will certainly take part for the Atlanta Falcons and Cleveland Browns.
- Michael Penix Jr.’s return from a knee injury could muddy the waters of his tussle with Tua Tagovailoa in Atlanta.
- If Aaron Rodgers doesn’t return to Pittsburgh, Drew Allar, Will Howard and Mason Rudolph will duke it out.
- Jacoby Brissett was assumed to be the Arizona starter, but Mike LaFleur stated that Brissett and Gardner Minshew both fit his system well.
The draft led off with the Las Vegas Raiders selecting Fernando Mendoza at No. 1 overall, but rookie head coach Klint Kubiak hasn’t hesitated to convey that he would be happy having Kirk Cousins begin the season starting.
A competition will take place in Minnesota.