There is a high level of optimism and uncertainty mixed together in Minnesota regarding the Vikings' new starting quarterback, J.J. McCarthy. Just because he lacks experience in the NFL doesn't mean the Vikings should be overlooked in 2025.
That's the point that Bleacher Report's Alex Kay recently made in his article on one reason each NFL team shouldn't be overlooked in 2025. The transition to a franchise quarterback in McCarthy should have the rest of the league keep both eyes on them to compete for a playoff spot, potentially a Super Bowl.
"The Vikings have posted a respectable 34-17 record under head coach Kevin O'Connell, accomplishing this feat despite five different players (none of whom were Day 1 or 2 picks by the organization) starting under center.
J.J. McCarthy, the first signal-caller to be taken in Round 1 since Christian Ponder in 2011, should bring some much-needed stability to this team now he's gearing up to make his first career start.
Although McCarthy missed all of Year 1 after suffering a meniscus tear, the Michigan product gained valuable experience learning the system and preparing for this moment.
With the young QB already showing out in camp, Minnesota appears to have a quarterback worth building around for the long haul and shouldn't be taken lightly."
2025 Minnesota Vikings are more dangerous with J.J. McCarthy as their starter
All those worries and concerns about not having an established starter in Minnesota are gone. McCarthy can do a lot of things well with his accuracy, mobility, and sheer will to win football games.
He has one of the most talented offenses in the NFL, starting with the skill players in Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, T.J. Hockenson, and Aaron Jones. McCarthy is going to be comfortable in the pocket with a revamped offensive line that has Christian Darrisaw, Ryan Kelly, and Will Fries leading the way.
Last year's offensive unit didn't blow anyone away, but they still posted respectable statistics against the rest of the NFL.
2024 Vikings Stat | NFL Rankings |
|---|---|
Total Offense: 346.9 | 12th |
Passing: 237.8 | 6th |
Rushing: 109.1 | 20th |
Scoring: 25.4 | 9th |
Turnover Margin: +12 | Tied for 3rd |
While the running game wasn't the strongest in Minnesota, that was addressed in the offseason with the signings of Kelly and Fries, as well as the drafting of Donovan Jackson in the first round to improve the line. Jordan Mason's addition in the backfield via trade with the San Francisco 49ers gives Jones a perfect one-two tandem to work with at running back.
Another element to consider is having head coach Kevin O'Connell assist with McCarthy's development. O'Connell has done a phenomenal job with other quarterbacks, such as Jared Goff, Matthew Stafford, Kirk Cousins, and Sam Darnold, in helping them perform well at quarterback.
McCarthy has everything he needs for the Vikings to be successful, and the NFL should be ready to see him and the franchise shine.