McCarthy’s Rise as Vikings Backup | Minnesota Vikings News

Kyler Murray locks in as the Vikings’ 2026 starter, leaving J.J. McCarthy as the backup—but don’t count him out. Coach O’Connell hints McCarthy will start the preseason opener against the Ravens, giving him a chance to challenge Murray early. Former Viking Ben Leber watched joint practices and was impressed—not just by McCarthy’s play, but how he’s built genuine team chemistry off the field. McCarthy’s intentional efforts to connect—throwing sessions, teammate hangouts, even a Wild game suite—paid off when he threw a TD in a two-minute drill, igniting cheers from his squad. Even Dave Portnoy believes McCarthy’s passion and preparation will eventually earn him a starting role, anywhere in the league, especially with injuries always looming.

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