Vikings Commit to J.J. McCarthy as 2025 Starter Despite Sam Darnold’s Breakout Season
The Minnesota Vikings have made a bold statement about their future at quarterback, shutting down trade inquiries and confirming that 2023 National Champion J.J. McCarthy will take over as their starting signal-caller in 2025. The decision comes after a year of uncertainty, marked by McCarthy’s season-ending knee injury in August 2024 and veteran Sam Darnold’s resurgence during a career-best campaign.
McCarthy, the 10th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, was initially viewed as the franchise’s long-term answer under center. However, his trajectory was derailed when he suffered a torn ACL during a preseason practice, forcing him to redshirt his rookie year. The Vikings pivoted to Darnold, signing the former first-round pick to a one-year “prove-it” deal expected to serve as a bridge to McCarthy’s eventual takeover. Instead, Darnold shattered expectations, throwing for 4,200 yards, 30 touchdowns, and just nine interceptions while leading Minnesota to a playoff berth. His performance reignited debates about his potential as a franchise quarterback and left the Vikings with a dilemma: stick with the hot hand or stay the course with their prized rookie.
General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and head coach Kevin O’Connell ultimately opted for continuity with McCarthy, citing the organization’s long-term vision. “J.J. has shown tremendous dedication during his rehab and has all the tools to lead this team,” Adofo-Mensah said in a statement. “While Sam exceeded every expectation, we drafted J.J. for a reason. This is about building something sustainable.”
The move carries significant risk. McCarthy, 21, has yet to take an NFL snap and will face immense pressure to justify the team’s faith. Critics argue that Darnold’s proven production—combined with McCarthy’s injury history—warranted a reevaluation of the depth chart. Meanwhile, supporters point to McCarthy’s pedigree as a clutch performer at Michigan, where he went 27-1 as a starter and delivered a title under coach Jim Harbaugh. His mobility, poise, and arm talent align with O’Connell’s offensive system, but translating that to the pros remains uncertain.
For Darnold, the decision leaves his future in limbo. The 27-year-old is set to hit free agency in 2025 and could command starter-level money after his breakout season. Minnesota’s commitment to McCarthy all but ensures Darnold will seek opportunities elsewhere, with several quarterback-needy teams likely to pursue him.
In Minnesota, the spotlight now shifts to McCarthy’s readiness. The Vikings’ roster, headlined by All-Pro wide receiver Justin Jefferson and a revamped defense, is built to win immediately. Ownership and fans, hungry for the team’s first Super Bowl appearance since 1977, will demand results.
“There’s no patience in this league,” O’Connell admitted. “But we believe J.J. is special. His work ethic and football IQ are off the charts. Now it’s about giving him the tools to succeed.”
As the 2025 season approaches, the Vikings’ gamble will be dissected relentlessly. If McCarthy thrives, he could solidify Minnesota as a perennial contender. If he struggles, the decision to bypass Darnold may haunt the franchise for years. For now, the Vikings are all-in on their rookie—ready or not.