J.J. McCarthy entered the 2026 season hoping to settle into Minnesota’s quarterback plans, but the Vikings have chosen to move in a different direction.
Kyler Murray won the starting job, leaving the former first-round pick to fight for a backup role instead.
Although the decision was made before the opener, McCarthy’s first preseason outing did little to strengthen his case, and now questions about his place on the roster are getting louder. For McCarthy, the next few weeks could matter far more than expected.
Mike Florio Points to J.J. McCarthy’s Next Challenge in Minnesota
The Vikings selected McCarthy No. 10 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, expecting him to develop into a franchise quarterback. His rookie season disappeared because of a torn meniscus, and his first extended NFL action came in 2025.
McCarthy started 10 games and went 6-4, but his 57.6% completion rate, 1,632 passing yards, 11 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions showed why Minnesota remained uncertain. This performance placed him at 34th rank in PFN NFL QB Impact.
The Vikings eventually turned to Murray after the 2026 quarterback competition, pushing McCarthy into the QB2 role. His preseason debut against the New York Giants then created another concern. McCarthy completed just 4-of-7 passes for 34 yards, while veteran Carson Wentz went 9-of-14 for 81 yards and a touchdown.
This performance has also brought trade speculation back into the conversation.
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NFL insider Mike Florio addressed the possibility in his latest Pro Football Talk column, while pointing out that Minnesota may struggle to find a team willing to make a meaningful offer.
Florio wrote, “There continues to be a question swirling as to whether the Vikings will trade McCarthy. For now, no obvious trade partner exists.”
Florio also made clear that McCarthy’s latest showing did not exactly improve his market. He added, “McCarthy’s performance from Saturday won’t make the phone ring off the hook.”
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This leaves the Vikings with a difficult decision about McCarthy’s role and long-term future. They can continue developing him behind Murray, but they also need to decide whether he has done enough to remain the team’s primary backup.
Florio put McCarthy’s situation into perspective, writing, “With McCarthy not winning the No. 1 spot in Minnesota, the next challenge is to hold on to No. 2.”
A trade would also come with a steep price in terms of value. The New York Jets have been floated as a possible destination, with a fourth-round pick mentioned as one potential return.
Other projections suggest Minnesota might receive only a fifth- or sixth-round selection unless another team suddenly needs a quarterback.
McCarthy still has two preseason games to change that outlook. He will face the Baltimore Ravens on Aug. 22 before the Vikings visit the Denver Broncos on Aug. 28.
