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2w ago

J.J. McCarthy Set for First NFL Start at Soldier Field on Monday Night

The Vikings elevate their 2024 top-10 pick after a cautious rehab under Kevin O’Connell’s plan.

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - AUGUST 9: Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy #9 looks on prior to the NFL Preseason 2025 game between Houston Texans and Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium on August 9, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
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MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - NOVEMBER 03: J.J. McCarthy #9 of the Minnesota Vikings looks on after the game against the Indianapolis Colts at U.S. Bank Stadium on November 03, 2024 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Vikings defeated the Colts 21-13. (Photo by David Berding/Getty Images)

Overview

  • The 22-year-old quarterback, who missed 2024 after torn meniscus surgeries, will debut for Minnesota against the Chicago Bears where he attended his first NFL game as a child.
  • McCarthy said he feels "most prepared" in his life and described "pure excitement, pure confidence" after a development track that limited him to one brief preseason appearance.
  • Teammates named McCarthy one of eight captains, and Minnesota added veteran Carson Wentz as a ready backup as part of a structured support system around the young starter.
  • Coach Kevin O’Connell has emphasized a measured approach to grooming quarterbacks, reinforcing that McCarthy will not be on an island with coaching and personnel support.
  • The matchup pairs McCarthy with Bears QB Caleb Williams under new coach Ben Johnson, with Chicago noting the rivalry talk is premature and Minnesota leaning on a Brian Flores-led defense and elite weapons including Justin Jefferson.