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Vikings GM Stops Short of Naming J.J. McCarthy 2026 Starter

Kwesi Adofo-Mensah signals a return to a competitive, deeper quarterback room.

Overview

  • Asked Tuesday if J.J. McCarthy will be QB1 next season, Adofo-Mensah declined to commit, citing the need to keep flexibility to pursue playoff goals.
  • He said the team will evaluate the players already in the building before seeking additions to strengthen competition at quarterback.
  • McCarthy’s 2025 line included 10 starts with 11 touchdowns, 12 interceptions, a 57.6% completion rate and a 72.6 passer rating near the bottom of qualified passers.
  • The former No. 10 pick missed his entire 2024 rookie season after a full meniscus repair and was limited by injuries in 2025, leaving Week 18 with a hand issue.
  • Reporting indicates McCarthy is likely to be included in an open competition for the starting job, as teammate Justin Jefferson has publicly voiced support for him.