Vikings Drop J.J. McCarthy to No. 3 QB as Kyler Murray Starts, Carson Wentz Backs Up
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Sep 9
Vikings Drop J.J. McCarthy to No. 3 QB as Kyler Murray Starts, Carson Wentz Backs Up
3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Sep 9
Summary
Kevin O'Connell set Minnesota's Week 1 quarterback order with Kyler Murray starting against Green Bay, Carson Wentz as backup and 2024 No. 10 pick J.J. McCarthy listed third-string.
Nearly 100 career starts helped Wentz win the No. 2 job, with O'Connell saying his experience makes him better prepared to step in while the Vikings focus on getting Murray comfortable.
McCarthy is expected to run scout-team work, a sharp slide for a quarterback once viewed as the franchise answer after Minnesota traded up to draft him in 2024.
His path unraveled through a torn meniscus that wiped out his rookie year, then a 2025 season with 11 touchdown passes, 12 interceptions and additional injuries, including a concussion.
The demotion leaves McCarthy's longer-term future in doubt if Murray plays well enough to earn a new deal after this season.