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Vikings Simplify Offense for J.J. McCarthy as QB Cleared to Start vs. Commanders

The staff adopted a decision-first approach intended to reduce turnovers.

Overview

  • Coach Kevin O’Connell said McCarthy cleared concussion protocol with no game designation and will start Sunday against Washington after a full practice week.
  • The adjusted plan follows a Week 13 shutout and eight giveaways over the past two games, with rookie fill-in Max Brosmer throwing four interceptions in his debut.
  • Running back Aaron Jones said parts of the playbook were "dumbed down," an awkward admission widely read as accommodating McCarthy and shared broadly on social media.
  • Tight end T.J. Hockenson voiced displeasure with simplifying the system, saying professionals do not like having things made simpler for them.
  • Receiver Jordan Addison pledged to focus on his assignments to help the quarterback, as McCarthy enters Week 14 at 54.1% passing with six touchdowns and ten interceptions in a 2-4 starting record.