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Vikings Back J.J. McCarthy as Special Teams Meltdown Caps Loss to Bears

Minnesota signals development remains the plan despite accuracy issues, with a thin depth chart blocking a quick change.

Overview

  • The Bears won 19-17 after Devin Duvernay’s 56-yard kickoff return set up a 48-yard field goal in the final seconds.
  • Special teams coordinator Matt Daniels criticized the coverage on the decisive return, saying “guys got greedy” and abandoned lanes.
  • Head coach Kevin O’Connell defended McCarthy’s long-term outlook, citing mechanical work to improve accuracy after a 52.9% completion start with six TDs and eight INTs.
  • ESPN insiders highlighted mounting concern over off-target throws and visible frustration from receivers, yet noted the team’s lack of a viable bench option with Carson Wentz out and rookie Max Brosmer untested.
  • Speculation about veteran quarterback help, including a potential Kirk Cousins move, is framed as an offseason consideration rather than an imminent shift.