The Minnesota Vikings are gearing up for the 2025 NFL season with a clear decision made regarding their quarterback situation: J.J. McCarthy will be their starter. This move comes amidst speculation about a potential acquisition of veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, which the Vikings have decided against, according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.
McCarthy, a 22-year-old first-round draft pick selected with the 10th overall pick in 2024, is set to lead the team after spending his entire rookie season on the sidelines due to a knee injury. The Vikings have reportedly turned down multiple trade inquiries for McCarthy, affirming their commitment to him as their franchise quarterback.
Despite his injury causing him to miss the entire prior season, McCarthy has displayed promising potential in his collegiate career at Michigan, where he led his team to a national championship, throwing for 22 touchdowns against just four interceptions in his junior year. As the offseason progresses, the Vikings plan on giving McCarthy first-team snaps during Organized Team Activities (OTAs) and minicamp.
While initially there were discussions about signing Rodgers, the Vikings have moved on from that idea. Rodgers, who was released by the New York Jets after a disappointing 5-12 season, had expressed interest in joining the Vikings, potentially drawn by the team's offensive setup and friendly environment with coach Kevin O'Connell. However, the Vikings are opting to focus on their future with McCarthy.
The dynamics behind this decision intensified when former Vikings starting quarterback Sam Darnold agreed to a lucrative three-year, $100.5 million deal with the Seattle Seahawks. Darnold, who had a breakout season in 2024 throwing for 35 touchdowns, was instrumental in the Vikings' performance last season, leading them to a 14-3 record.
As the Vikings solidify their plans for McCarthy, questions arise regarding the backup quarterback situation. The team needs to secure a veteran presence behind McCarthy, especially considering the uncertainties that surround a young, untested starter. Current options mentioned include veterans Joe Flacco and Ryan Tannehill, while other names like Kirk Cousins, who previously played successfully with the franchise, could emerge as possibilities if they become available later in the offseason.
While the Vikings have decided to pass on Rodgers for the time being, this decision may not be permanent. Sources indicate that should McCarthy sustain another injury or show signs of needing further development, the Vikings might revisit their interest in Rodgers before the training camp begins. However, the current sentiment seems firmly aligned with developing McCarthy after investing heavily in him last draft.
Moreover, the Vikings are approaching this offseason with broader ambitions in mind. They committed over $300 million to bolster their roster, displaying the team’s intent to build around McCarthy on his rookie contract. Establishing a stable performance from the quarterback position is critical if they are to replicate or even improve on their previous season's success.
As the offseason unfolds, the organization is expected to keep an eye on various free-agent quarterbacks while ensuring McCarthy is afforded every opportunity to prove himself as a capable starter. Internal confidence in McCarthy is clear, with coach O'Connell affirming his potential and status as the franchise leader moving forward.
Ultimately, how this all plays out will depend on a myriad of factors, including McCarthy's health and performance in the upcoming training camps and preseason games. The Vikings appear ready to embrace a new era of football under McCarthy's leadership, hoping to shake off the shadows of the past while looking toward a brighter future on the field.
