The Minnesota Vikings are satisfied with the development of their young quarterback J. J. McCarthy

J. J. McCarthy represents the future of the Minnesota Vikings. The quarterback was picked 10th overall in the 2025 NFL Draft. However, he has yet to make his NFL debut.

After an impressive preseason debut against the Las Vegas Raiders, in which he threw two touchdown passes, he reported pain during training. It was determined that he had completely torn the meniscus in his right knee. The result was the end of his season.

Veteran Sam Darnold had filled in well for McCarthy last season. The Vikings qualified for the playoffs with a 14-3 record before falling to the Los Angeles Rams in the wild card round. Darnold has since moved on to the Seattle Seahawks. The future in Minnesota will belong to 22-year-old McCarthy. Physically, he is said to be at 100 percent.

Co-owner Mark Wilf also highlighted the young quarterback’s leadership qualities. “He has an appeal as a leader. He really does,” he is quoted as saying on the team’s website. “The talent is there. Coach O’Connell is full of praise for how he has handled everything, and from a sporting perspective, we couldn’t be happier. So everything is pointing in the right direction. We will support J.J. so that he can be the success we want him to be.”

2025 is likely to be a special year for McCarthy, not only in terms of sports but also in his personal life. He and his fiancée are expecting their first child in September.