Vikings’ QB Dilemma: Should Minnesota Trade or Keep JJ McCarthy?
The Minnesota Vikings’ 2024 season was a rollercoaster, exceeding expectations with a 14-3 regular season record, only to crash out of the playoffs in the Wild Card round. This dramatic finish has ignited a fierce debate: what should the Vikings do with their quarterback situation? Specifically, should they stick with their original plan and hand the reins to rookie J.J. McCarthy, or explore other options, potentially trading the young prospect? This decision will shape the franchise’s future for years to come.
The Sam Darnold Resurgence
The Vikings’ initial plan for 2024 was to have veteran Sam Darnold serve as a bridge quarterback while J.J. McCarthy, the 10th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, developed. However, McCarthy suffered a season-ending knee injury in the preseason, thrusting Darnold into the starting role. What followed was unexpected. Darnold, a former top-three pick who had struggled to find consistency in his career, thrived in Kevin O’Connell’s offensive system. He led the Vikings to a 14-3 regular season record, and at times, was even mentioned in the MVP conversation. Darnold finished the season with a 102.5 passer rating, throwing for 4,319 yards and 35 touchdowns.
However, the season ended on a sour note for Darnold. He struggled mightily in the final two games, including a Wild Card loss to the Los Angeles Rams where he was sacked nine times and committed two turnovers. This late-season collapse has thrown his future with the Vikings into question. Despite his regular season success, some analysts believe that Darnold’s poor performance in the playoffs has opened the door for McCarthy to take over in 2025.
The Case for J.J. McCarthy
The Vikings traded up to select J.J. McCarthy in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, signaling their belief in his potential as a franchise quarterback. Despite missing the entire season due to a knee injury, McCarthy remains a highly regarded prospect. Before his injury, McCarthy showed promise in the preseason, completing 11 of 17 passes for 188 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception in a game against the Las Vegas Raiders. He also demonstrated his athleticism with two rushes for 18 yards.
Many scouts believe that McCarthy has the potential to be a top quarterback in the league. Some even suggested that had he been in the 2025 draft, he would have been the top quarterback prospect. He is praised for his arm talent, decision-making, and ability to make explosive plays. Moreover, McCarthy spent the season learning Kevin O’Connell’s offensive system, attending meetings, and traveling with the team, which could give him a leg up as he enters his second year.
The Vikings’ Options
The Vikings face a complex decision with multiple paths forward:
- Commit to McCarthy: The Vikings could hand the starting job to McCarthy, allowing him to develop on the field. This would align with their original plan when they drafted him. This option is gaining traction, especially after Darnold’s poor playoff performance. The team is reportedly “really happy” with McCarthy’s progress and recovery.
- Re-sign Darnold: Despite his late-season struggles, Darnold had a career year in Minnesota. The Vikings could choose to re-sign him, either to a long-term deal or a franchise tag, which would allow them to retain his rights for 2025. Some analysts believe the Vikings might offer Darnold a contract in the range of four years, $160 million.
- Trade McCarthy: With a weaker quarterback class in the 2025 NFL Draft, some teams may be willing to offer a significant package for McCarthy. The Vikings could capitalize on this demand and acquire valuable draft capital. Teams like the New York Giants and Las Vegas Raiders are reportedly interested in trading for McCarthy.
- Franchise Tag and Trade Darnold: The Vikings could also use the franchise tag on Darnold and then trade him to a quarterback-needy team. This strategy would allow them to recoup some value for Darnold while still moving forward with McCarthy.
- Sign Daniel Jones: The Vikings signed Daniel Jones after the Giants released him, and they reportedly want him back for 2025. He could serve as a backup or a bridge if McCarthy isn’t ready to start.
The Trade Scenario
The possibility of trading McCarthy is gaining traction. Several teams are reportedly interested in acquiring the young quarterback, especially given the perceived weakness of the 2025 quarterback draft class. Teams like the Giants, Raiders, and Saints could be potential suitors. The Vikings could potentially acquire a high draft pick or multiple picks in exchange for McCarthy.
However, trading McCarthy would be a significant gamble. It would mean abandoning their initial plan and potentially missing out on a franchise quarterback. It would also mean that the Vikings would have to find another quarterback to lead the team, either through free agency or the draft.
The Verdict
The Vikings’ quarterback situation is one of the most intriguing storylines of the 2025 offseason. While Sam Darnold’s resurgence was a pleasant surprise, his late-season struggles have opened the door for J.J. McCarthy to take over. The Vikings must weigh the potential of McCarthy against the proven ability of Darnold. Ultimately, the decision will depend on the team’s evaluation of McCarthy’s readiness and their long-term vision for the franchise.
The Vikings’ decision will have a significant impact on their 2025 season and beyond. They must carefully consider all their options before making a move.
What do you think the Vikings should do? Let us know in the comments below!
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