One of the hottest topics heading into free agency was quarterback Sam Darnold. Darnold led the Minnesota Vikings to a 14-3 record last season and had the best season of his career by far. However, in the two biggest games of the season, Darnold played poorly. With 2024 first round pick J.J. McCarthy spending a year behind Darnold, one of the biggest questions of this off-season was what would Minnesota at quarterback. With Darnold signing a contract with the Seattle Seahawks, we have the answer, and J.J. McCarthy will take over at quarterback for the Vikings.
The J.J. McCarthy Era Begins In Minnesota
With Sam Darnold taking over at quarterback for the Seattle Seahawks, second year quarterback J.J. McCarthy will become the Vikings starting quarterback. McCarthy will be stepping into a great situation for a quarterback. Head coach Kevin O’Connell is known for being a great offensive mind and play-caller. O’Connell played a vital role in the revival of Sam Darnold’s career last season.
Weapons around McCarthy
McCarthy will have numerous play makers to work with as well. Justin Jefferson is arguably the best wide receiver in the league. Jordan Addison had a breakout season at wide receiver, recording 63 receptions for 875 yards and 9 touchdowns. Tight end TJ Hockenson made his return to play halfway through last season. In ten games, Hockenson recorded 41 receptions for 455 yards. Aaron Jones also had a good season on the ground. Jones rushed for 1,138 yards and 5 touchdowns while catching 51 passes for 408 yards. There is so much elite, returning production for McCarthy as he steps into his first season as the Vikings’ starter.
Watch: J.J. McCarthy All-22 Film Study
Expectations for the Vikings
After a great and frankly shocking 14-3 season, the Vikings feel that their window for championship contention is officially open. Minnesota has been busy in free agency today as they have signed defensive tackle Jonathan Allen, center Ryan Kelly, offensive guard Will Fries, and likely defensive tackle Javon Hargrave. Pro Bowl cornerback Byron Murphy Jr. is also returning on a 3 year/66 million dollar deal. These are significant moves for Minnesota as they have shored up their biggest weaknesses from last season, the interior offensive and defensive lines.
As for J.J. McCarthy and the Vikings’ offense, there is no reason to believe McCarthy can not have a similar level of success as Sam Darnold did. Although there will likely be growing pains with McCarthy, he will also show flashes of brilliance. It is McCarthy’s first season as an NFL starter, but he was able to learn the Vikings’ offensive system while recovering from a torn meniscus last season. For young quarterbacks, this is often very important. Some of the best quarterbacks ever served as a backup for one or multiple seasons before becoming starters. A few examples include Tom Brady, Aaron Rodgers, and Patrick Mahomes.
With such an elite supporting cast around him, and the offensive line being revamped, J.J. McCarthy could have a great season. Having playmakers like Jefferson, Addison, Hockenson, Aaron Jones, and a brilliant offensive-minded coach like O’Connell will make his life a lot easier on McCarthy.
Main Photo Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports
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