The Minnesota Vikings are set to begin the 2025 NFL season with JJ McCarthy as their new starting quarterback, taking over from Sam Darnold, who departed for the Seattle Seahawks in free agency. McCarthy, the Vikings’ first-round pick at 10th overall in 2024, will start in his second year after missing most of his rookie season due to a torn meniscus.
Head coach Kevin O’Connell expressed strong confidence in McCarthy’s readiness to lead the team, highlighting the quarterback’s impressive offseason progress and the positive impact he has made on the team’s dynamics. Despite his injury, McCarthy spent last season observing and learning from both Darnold and O’Connell, preparing to assume the starting role with high expectations.
Vikings Coach Confident in McCarthy’s Development and Leadership
Kevin O’Connell has emphasized the significant role McCarthy will play in Minnesota’s offense, recognizing the pressure and responsibilities that come with being an NFL starting quarterback. O’Connell praised McCarthy’s dedication throughout the offseason, noting the enthusiasm he has brought to the team and the reciprocal energy from his teammates.
“He’s absolutely had a phenomenal offseason, from the time before the offseason program started through the nine weeks that we were allowed to be on the grass, and then I think it’s been awesome this summer seeing these guys getting together, working. You feel the energy and the enthusiasm not only that J.J. has brought to the group, but that they’re reciprocating right back to him,” O’Connell said.
O’Connell also stressed that all starting quarterbacks must effectively manage games to secure victories, dismissing the notion that game management is a lesser quality for star players.
“People want to talk about the game-manager position,” O’Connell said, via The Athletic. “All 32 (starters) better manage the game, or you’re going to lose. I think we can simulate that.”
McCarthy’s Winning Experience and Team’s Ambitious Outlook
McCarthy’s successful college career, capped by winning a national championship with Michigan, gives him valuable experience in high-stakes competition. This background is expected to help him navigate the challenges of leading a team in the NFL. Minnesota’s general manager, Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, described the roster as versatile and resilient, aiming to build a squad capable of prevailing regardless of the obstacles they face.
“The idea is that this is the type of team that can show up to a fight — not knowing what the fight is going to be — and be the last one standing,” general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah said. “We wanted to build the type of team that was versatile, that could win in different ways. And we think we’ve done that.”
The Vikings have put together a roster designed to compete for the NFC North title, placing confidence in McCarthy’s leadership as they look to return to the playoffs. Their 2025 campaign will officially begin on September 8 when they face the Chicago Bears.
Looking Ahead: What This Transition Means for the Vikings
The transition from Sam Darnold to JJ McCarthy marks a key moment for the Minnesota Vikings as they aim to blend McCarthy’s youthful energy with a strategically crafted roster. With O’Connell’s faith in McCarthy’s abilities and the management’s focus on building a tough, adaptable team, the Vikings are positioning themselves to contend strongly in the coming season. The success of the Sam Darnold Vikings quarterback transition will be closely watched as McCarthy steps into the spotlight and looks to lead Minnesota back to postseason success.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Sam Darnold sober?
A. He stopped drinking alcohol in 1980 after starting with a martini at age 12 in his parents’ house. Now, he focuses on helping teenagers in recovery. For many years, he has worked with at-risk youth in Orange County, California. “I have stayed away from drinking and drugs for 38 years,” he said.
Q. Why did Sam Darnold see ghosts?
A. Darnold mentioned how they would say, “Aw, they’re seeing ghosts out there.” He shared this with his coach during a difficult game when they were losing 40-0. He was upset and unsure of what to say, and unfortunately, his words were caught on live television.
Q. What disease did Sam Darnold get?
A. Darnold appeared on ESPN’s The Michael Kay Show for his weekly segment. He was asked about how he got mono, also known as “the kissing disease.” He laughed and responded, “Not sure. It’s a tricky illness that can stay in your system for months before showing symptoms.”
Q. Did Sam Darnold have an MRI?
A. Sam Darnold’s recent injury seemed worse than it actually was. According to Tom Pelissero from the NFL Network, an MRI showed Darnold, the Vikings quarterback, only has a knee bruise. There is no structural damage. Pelissero also mentioned Darnold will likely not miss any games. This is encouraging news.