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Vikings Name J.J. McCarthy 2025 Starter Despite Training Camp Doubts

Offensive coordinator Wes Phillips says McCarthy is right where the team expected him to be.

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J.J. McCarthy #9 of the Minnesota Vikings participates in a drill during training camp on August 02, 2024 in Eagan, Minnesota.
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Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) gives high-fives to his teammates during the second day of the team’s mandatory minicamp, June 11, 2025, at the TCO Performance Center in Eagan, Minnesota. (Anthony Souffle/The Minnesota Star Tribune/TNS)

Overview

  • The Vikings have officially confirmed J.J. McCarthy as their starting quarterback for the 2025 season after he missed his rookie year with an injury.
  • Wes Phillips publicly endorsed McCarthy’s development, noting that the young quarterback is progressing as anticipated in grasping the offense.
  • Colin Cowherd reported that McCarthy threw interceptions on three consecutive days in training camp and questioned his arm strength and release quickness.
  • Minnesota has surrounded McCarthy with elite weapons including Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, T.J. Hockenson and running back Aaron Jones to support his transition.
  • The decision to back McCarthy follows the departure of Sam Darnold to Seattle and the Vikings’ choice to pass on Aaron Rodgers, with the team adding depth behind him in recent roster moves.