Vikings legend Cris Carter has seen enough of quarterback J.J. McCarthy. After Minnesota signed Kyler Murray, the Hall of Fame wide receiver opened up about how the rest of the league views the situation. The reaction centered on how opponents would feel lining up against the Vikings in 2026.
Cris Carter Questions J.J. McCarthy’s Standing After Kyler Murray Signing
Speaking on the “Fully Loaded” podcast, Carter pointed to division rivals and how they would evaluate Minnesota’s quarterback situation heading into next season.
“Guess what? What do you think Green Bay said when they signed Kyler Murray?” Carter said. “What do you think Chicago said? Who do you want to play next year twice? J.J. McCarthy or Kyler Murray?”
“A lot of times in the league, go to your opponent and ask them the same question you’re asking yourself, and you will get the best answer. Hey, Chicago, who’s better, J.J. McCarthy or Kyler Murray?”
*Language warning*
Vikings legend @criscarter80 had a pretty blunt reaction to the Kyler Murray signing on the @FullyLoaded_Pod 😅 pic.twitter.com/cUCwoXvnLj
— SleeperVikings (@SleeperVikings) March 19, 2026
Carter’s point reflects a broader reality. McCarthy has not yet shown enough to command respect across the league, while Murray brings a resume that includes Pro Bowl production and proven playmaking ability. That difference in status is exactly why Minnesota made the move.
Kyler Murray’s Arrival Puts Pressure on McCarthy
Last week, the Vikings signed Murray to a one-year deal at the veteran minimum after his release from the Arizona Cardinals. Because he is still being paid by Arizona, Minnesota was able to add a former No. 1 overall pick without a major financial commitment.
Even so, the implications go far beyond a short-term addition.
Language warning
Vikings legend @criscarter80 had a pretty blunt reaction to the Kyler Murray signing on the @FullyLoaded_Pod 😅 pic.twitter.com/cUCwoXvnLj
— SleeperVikings (@SleeperVikings) March 19, 2026
McCarthy’s 2025 season did little to solidify his role as the future of the franchise. Injuries limited his availability, and when he did play, the results were inconsistent.
He completed 57.6% of his passes with 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions across 10 starts. According to the PFSN NFL QB Impact Metric, he ranked 37th among quarterbacks.
Murray, meanwhile, finished 21st in the same metric despite dealing with injuries of his own. His experience and ability to extend plays offer a different dimension to Minnesota’s offense.
There are also signs the Vikings may view this as more than a one-year experiment. Head coach Kevin O’Connell reportedly told Murray he could be a longer-term answer, not just a temporary solution. That kind of message suggests the organization is preparing for multiple outcomes at the position.
Around the league, there’s a clear difference in how those two quarterbacks are viewed right now. One has done it before. One hasn’t shown it yet.
Carter has been right about McCarthy from the jump.
