McCarthy Wows in Preseason Debut

With Minnesota now in the post-Kirk Cousins era, the team put significant effort into finding a successor for the most important position in football. Former Michigan QB JJ McCarthy was selected 11th overall by the Vikings in April to fill those shoes. McCarthy is an intriguing prospect, coming off a National Championship at Michigan, which only added to the buzz surrounding him. With high expectations, many were eager to see how he would perform in his first taste of NFL action. This weekend, McCarthy took the field in the team's first preseason game, and he left nearly nothing to be desired.

JJ relieved Sam Darnold late in the first quarter, and despite throwing an early interception, he bounced back admirably. With both his arm and legs on full display, McCarthy showcased his talents in the nearly two quarters he played. Statistically, he put up impressive numbers, rushing for 18 yards and completing 11 of 17 passes for 188 yards, two touchdowns, and an interception. On the field, he demonstrated good pocket presence, scrambling when necessary and delivering accurate throws on the run. The highlight of the game came on his first touchdown pass, a 50-yard bomb down the left sideline. Superstar WR Justin Jefferson, who was mic'd up for the moment, showed his excitement for the rookie on the sideline, jumping up and down with jubilation.

The potential duo of McCarthy and Jefferson is one that many are hoping to see in full swing sooner rather than later. With Sam Darnold currently slated as the team's starting QB, it may take some time before we see the two connect on the big stage. However, if McCarthy continues to impress with performances like this, it may only be a matter of time before he is thrust into the starting role. For the Vikings, the goal should be to have an Alex Smith/Patrick Mahomes situation, where the young QB sits for a year to build experience. However, this might not sit well with their freshly paid $30 million superstar Jefferson if things start to go south early.

Given McCarthy’s winning mentality, the locker room might feel it’s time to give the kid the reins this season. With the regular season looming and momentum building off these preseason performances, I believe it’s only a matter of time until JJ is made the starter in Minnesota.