Overview

• J.J. McCarthy is locked in as the starting quarterback after rehabbing his knee injury and drawing praise for his arm talent and rapid progression under Kevin O’Connell’s rigorous spring program.
• Sam Howell remains the primary backup but will face a thorough evaluation in training camp as Minnesota also eyes veterans like Ryan Tannehill, Kirk Cousins and free agents such as Carson Wentz.
• Wide receiver Jordan Addison faces a July 15 court date that could trigger a three-game suspension, raising the urgency for runs and increased targets for Justin Jefferson and T.J. Hockenson.
• The franchise is projecting a $50 million-plus deficit under the 2026 salary cap, prompting calls to secure key contracts such as right tackle Brian O’Neill’s.
• If the Indianapolis Colts install Daniel Jones as their starter, scouts say the Vikings could pursue Anthony Richardson as a high-upside trade target to bolster long-term depth.