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last mo.

Vikings Likely to Move On From J.J. McCarthy After Kyler Murray Named Starter

McCarthy’s uneven preseason play, a mild ankle deltoid sprain and guaranteed salary make a trade or waiver before the Aug. 30 roster cutdown increasingly likely.

Image
Aug 22, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) looks to throw a pass against the Baltimore Ravens during the first quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images
Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh talks to quarterback J.J. McCarthy before the start of the Rose Bowl vs. Alabama in Pasadena, California, on Monday, Jan. 1, 2024.
Aug 22, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell and Baltimore Ravens head coach Jesse Minter talk after the game at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images

Overview

  • The Vikings have named Kyler Murray the Week 1 starter and coaching evaluations have shifted the backup fight to Carson Wentz and J.J. McCarthy.
  • Recent practice reports show McCarthy and Wentz splitting second‑team reps, and multiple outlets say Wentz is trending to be the primary backup.
  • McCarthy missed a full‑pads practice with a mild ankle deltoid sprain and has shown accuracy and consistency issues in preseason game reps.
  • Contract details complicate a quick release because roughly $1.075 million of McCarthy’s 2026 pay and about $3.775 million for 2027 are guaranteed, so the Vikings would likely seek a trade but may have to eat money or waive him if interest is thin.
  • McCarthy has one final chance to alter his standing in Friday’s preseason finale when a strong showing could prompt trade interest, otherwise he risks beginning the season as QB3 or exiting Minnesota before Week 1.