Overview
- Media and betting markets view Kyler Murray as the favorite to start, but the Vikings have not named a starter and sources expect the competition to run through training camp and possibly into the preseason.
- Reports say Murray and receiver Jordan Addison did private workouts together in Dallas over the past two months, which could give Murray an early chemistry advantage with a key target.
- J.J. McCarthy remains on a team-controlled rookie contract but his 2025 on-field struggles — 11 touchdowns, 12 interceptions, a 72.6 passer rating and 27 sacks in 10 starts — raise questions about his readiness to keep the job.
- Murray is on a one-year deal and is returning from a mid-foot sprain, so the Vikings must weigh his experience and playmaking versus the learning curve of a new system and his short-term contract status.
- Rookies report July 26, veterans report July 28, and the first open practice is August 1, giving Minnesota’s coaches live reps to judge accuracy, decision-making and protection handling before committing to a starter.