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After 31-0 Win, Vikings Put J.J. McCarthy’s Development Under the Microscope

Minnesota now turns the final four games into a quarterback evaluation with offseason options under discussion.

Overview

  • Returning from a concussion, McCarthy posted his best outing in Week 14, going 16-of-23 for 163 yards and a career-high three touchdowns in a 31-0 shutout of Washington.
  • Kevin O’Connell said he told McCarthy to “quiet your mind” and simplified the approach, while the offense leaned on 162 rushing yards, including 76 from Aaron Jones Sr.
  • With Dallas up next, Jones called the Cowboys a fast, physical defense, and coaches signaled they will try to replicate the efficient, run-supported plan to build on McCarthy’s progress.
  • Former QB Kurt Warner urged steady growth over the final four games to set up 2026, reflecting the team’s focus on assessing whether McCarthy can cement the No. 1 role.
  • Speculation about adding veteran competition persists, with ESPN’s Dan Graziano floating a possible Daniel Jones reunion as a theory following his Achilles injury, while Justin Jefferson continues to publicly back McCarthy and work on their on-field connection.