The signing of quarterback Kyler Murray has Vikings receiver Justin Jefferson excited. He’s also hoping for benefits for incumbent playmaker J.J. McCarthy.

At the end of last NFL season, Minnesota Vikings star receiver Justin Jefferson was asked about his quarterback J.J.McCarthy. The pass receiver stated that he would “love to work with him and show everybody that he’s number one.”

As the Vikings have now started their offseason program, however, the situation and Jefferson’s statements have been much different.

In the meantime, Kyler Murray, who was released by the Arizona Cardinals, has been signed. This makes McCarthy’s path back to the starting quarterback position much more difficult.

In this context, Jefferson told journalists that he had spent time training with McCarthy since the end of last season – and that he was “much more confident” than a year ago.

Jefferson is looking forward to Murray

However, Jefferson didn’t hide that he’s excited about newcomer Murray and his ability to create “exciting plays” in the offense.

However, the receiver believes Murray’s skills can also benefit McCarthy, the current starter.

“I’m definitely looking forward to [Murray’s] speed, agility and throwing ability, which he’s demonstrated countless times over the years,” the pass receiver was quoted as saying by ESPN.

Does McCarthy benefit from Murray?

“As for J.J., when someone with that kind of ability and talent comes into the team, he’s going to have to work a little harder. So it’s good for him to feel that pressure and really focus and say, ‘It’s either now or I’m slipping back into the background.’“

And further: ”So things like that are about a competitive mindset. So it comes down to who’s ready for that moment and who’s ready to step forward and take the initiative.”

Who will be on the field as the starting QB for the Vikings in week one is still completely unclear.