A lot has changed over the years in the NFL. At one time, a quarterback could be a pocket passer with limited mobility and still thrive. In today's league, a passer needs to be able to move around the pocket and be able to evade pressure with the increasing talent on defense.
When the Minnesota Vikings drafted quarterback J.J. McCarthy in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, the team knew they were getting a winner. A member of the University of Michigan team that won the National Championship, he showcased clutch play and huge potential.
Don't underestimate the athletic ability that quarterback J.J. McCarthy brings to the Minnesota Vikings.
While there are concerns about J.J. McCarthy being able to handle a larger passing volume, there hasn't been a lot of discussion about some of the other things he will bring to the Minnesota Vikings as their starting quarterback.
His leadership isn't something that has been questioned, but there hasn't been a lot of talk about some of the physical qualities that have gone under the radar about the 22-year-old quarterback entering the 2025 NFL season.
McCarthy should be a full-go for the upcoming season after missing all of 2024 with a knee injury. However, those knees are more than capable of getting him out of trouble if he needs to scramble or evade pressure in the pocket.
Recently, Establish the Run’s Evan Silva posted a video discussing the upgrades to the offensive line in Minnesota and talent on defense, adding that this year's roster is more talented than the one from 2024.
However, it is the athleticism of J.J. McCarthy that Silva believes isn't being talked about enough. At the 2024 NFL Combine, the former Michigan quarterback ran a 4.48 40-yard dash and 6.82 in the three-cone drill.
How heavily does Minnesota need to lean on JJ McCarthy this season? 🟣
— Establish The Run (@EstablishTheRun) June 26, 2025
Why @adamlevitan and @evansilva are bullish on MIN’s outlook and also backing them on their win total: pic.twitter.com/neOlKiguv5
He goes on to say that McCarthy could be a game-breaking runner if given opportunities. Adding that dimension to the Minnesota Vikings in 2025 could be huge for the offense. Silva thinks the purple and gold could win the Super Bowl this season and crush the 8.5 line on their wins.
It's great to be excited about J.J. McCarthy and the Vikings for the 2025 NFL season, but it is also important to temper your expectations and let the young quarterback make mistakes as he grows and develops under head coach Kevin O'Connell.