The Minnesota Vikings received unexpectedly strong quarterback play from Sam Darnold last season. After joining on a one-year deal following his backup role behind Brock Purdy in San Francisco, few predicted he would turn in a Pro Bowl-caliber season. Yet, he impressed with a 66.2% completion rate, 4,319 yards, 35 touchdowns, 12 interceptions, and a 102.5 passer rating.
Initially, many didn’t expect Darnold to start at all. After Minnesota drafted former Michigan standout JJ McCarthy 10th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft—following Kirk Cousins’ departure—most assumed McCarthy would take over. However, a preseason ACL injury sidelined the rookie, handing the job to Darnold by default. After a breakout year, he left the Vikings in free agency and signed with the Seattle Seahawks.
Meanwhile, longtime Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers, released by the New York Jets, expressed interest in joining the Vikings—his former rivals. Coming off a season where he completed 63% of his throws for 3,897 yards, 28 touchdowns, and a 90.5 passer rating, Rodgers thought he could serve as a veteran bridge while McCarthy developed.
But Minnesota declined, opting to move forward with McCarthy instead. Rodgers is now reportedly close to signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers for 2025.
Had Minnesota pursued Rodgers, it would’ve reunited him with running back Aaron Jones, his former teammate in Green Bay. With speculation about Rodgers now fading, Jones recently voiced his support for McCarthy:
“J.J.’s a winner. From high school to college, he’s only lost one game. He came in and was playing great before his injury. If he hadn’t gotten hurt, it might’ve been a real quarterback battle. He’s a competitor who wants to be great.”
Given Jones’ experience and praise, Vikings fans have good reason to feel optimistic about McCarthy’s future.
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