Vikings Make Surprising Announcement on QBs J.J. and Sam Darnold
In their final media session before the NFL Combine, Minnesota Vikings executives, including General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and Head Coach Kevin O’Connell, refrained from committing to either Sam Darnold or J.J. McCarthy as the starting quarterback for the 2025 season. This cautious stance is strategic, benefiting the team’s flexibility moving forward.
While Darnold’s future with the Vikings remains uncertain, his value extends beyond just being a potential starter. Darnold could serve as a crucial trade asset, or the team could choose to franchise tag him if they decide to retain his rights. If the Vikings opt for a tag-and-trade scenario, it’s important they keep Darnold’s marketability high by not signaling a lack of interest in him. Any indication that Minnesota might move away from Darnold could dampen his trade value.
The Vikings’ front office remained non-committal in their praise of both quarterbacks. Adofo-Mensah, speaking on January 16, reflected on the team’s internal evaluation of McCarthy, despite the quarterback’s setback due to a meniscus injury. He noted that McCarthy had been pushing Darnold for the starting role in the latter part of training camp. Adofo-Mensah emphasized that the outcome of the competition was still uncertain at the time of McCarthy’s injury, leaving open the possibility that McCarthy could have challenged for the starting job if not sidelined.
McCarthy’s development over the season has been promising, despite his injury. After months of recovery, the quarterback is expected to return to top physical form, and his impressive mental progress is a positive sign for his future. His preseason debut showed significant potential, particularly in a game against the Las Vegas Raiders, where he bounced back from an early interception to complete 11 of 17 passes for 188 yards and two touchdowns. The performance, along with his development during spring and training camp, led many to believe that McCarthy was closing in on Darnold for the starting spot.
The Vikings had anticipated a key test for McCarthy during joint practices against the Cleveland Browns’ defense, a session that would have been crucial for his progression. Unfortunately, McCarthy never participated due to a knee injury, which was later diagnosed as a meniscus tear, cutting short his rookie season and putting his battle for the starting role on hold.