Vikings' McCarthy Wants Fully Guaranteed Rookie Deal

One of the biggest names coming out of the draft this offseason was former Michigan QB, JJ McCarthy. Selected 10th overall by the Minnesota Vikings, McCarthy is seen as the potential next great franchise QB for the team. However, there is a small hurdle to overcome before he can even touch the field, let alone make a name for himself. According to reports, McCarthy is willing to hold out if he does not get a fully guaranteed contract from Minnesota, much like Bears rookie QB Caleb Williams secured just a few days ago. Unfortunately for McCarthy, this isn’t something the Vikings have ever done for a rookie contract in their entire history.

While both sides present intriguing points of view, I believe JJ McCarthy has the upper hand in this situation. When we really look at things, even though Minnesota has never fully guaranteed a rookie contract, the stake they have in McCarthy is too high to let things go bad before they even start. Currently, Sam Darnold is the other capable starter on the roster, and while the Vikings have faith in him to be a competent starter if needed, they would prefer to have their first-round pick signed on good terms. The desperation of the organization in an ever-growing passing league will likely push them to make the right decision and give McCarthy what he’s looking for.

McCarthy is a proven winner, most notably shown with his College Football Championship in January, and he displays a lot of talent as both a runner and a passer. It would be foolish for the Vikings to get off on the wrong foot due to a rigid stance on rookie contracts. I think the organization will come to realize this and make the correct move in due time before the season starts.