McCarthy, who was selected 10th overall out of the University of Michigan in the 2024 Draft, should acclimate well to the NFL in head coach Kevin O’Connell’s QB-friendly system, with a dangerous arsenal of weapons featuring Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, T.J. Hockenson, and Aaron Jones.

Those running the Vikings took somewhat of a gamble when they decided to trust that McCarthy would be ready to win meaningful games in September after he spent his entire rookie season recovering from a meniscus repair.

“Fans were in attendance at Vikings training camp for the first time today, and J.J. McCarthy gave them plenty to cheer about,” Sports Illustrated’s Will Ragatz posted on X on July 26. “He had his best day of camp so far.”

McCarthy, 22, is the unquestioned starting quarterback of the Vikings. But that doesn't mean they aren't setting an expectation for ups and downs.

The Minnesota Vikings took a chance moving on to J.J. McCarthy in 2025. But Kevin O'Connell wants McCarthy to be built for long-term solution.

The Minnesota Vikings are entering the 2025 NFL season with a major change in the roster. After parting ways with Sam Darnold in the free agency, all eyes are on J.J. McCarthy, who'll take the QB mantle in the upcoming season.

Colin Cowherd has been a vocal critic of J.J. McCarthy, even before the 2024 NFL draftee set foot on the field. After losing his rookie season due to a torn meniscus, which opened the door for Sam Darnold to lead the team to a 14-win season, McCarthy is back and ready to emulate or improve Darnold’s performance.

Ryan Kelly may be new to the Minnesota Vikings but he is already taking notice of his new quarterback and his leadership.