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Vikings Cement J.J. McCarthy As Starter, Seek Dependable Backup Options

Sam Howell’s early camp struggles have prompted Minnesota to explore veteran additions to bolster second-string depth.

Head coach Kevin O'Connell of the Minnesota Vikings looks on during the first half of a game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on January 07, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan.
J.J. McCarthy #9 of the Minnesota Vikings looks on in the second quarter of the preseason game against the Las Vegas Raiders at U.S. Bank Stadium on August 10, 2024 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
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Overview

  • J.J. McCarthy, who missed his rookie season with a knee injury, is locked in as the Vikings’ Week 1 starter despite lacking regular-season experience.
  • Sam Howell has struggled to process and release the ball against the first-team defense, fueling concerns about his reliability as the primary backup.
  • Minnesota has held discussions on acquiring veteran quarterbacks through trades and free agency, targeting Kirk Cousins, Anthony Richardson and James Winston.
  • A reunion with Cousins could involve Atlanta absorbing a substantial portion of his $27.5 million 2025 salary in exchange for late-round draft picks.
  • Rookie Max Brosmer and veteran Brett Rypien are competing for the third-string role, with Brosmer’s performance in early reps drawing high praise.