Vikings Choose Kyler Murray Over J.J. McCarthy as Starting QB

Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell has chosen Kyler Murray as the starting quarterback, bypassing J.J. McCarthy, the team’s 2024 first-round pick. McCarthy missed his rookie season due to a knee injury and struggled with inconsistency in 2025. A CBS Sports report highlighted that some within the Vikings organization saw McCarthy as ‘unpredictable.’

“A franchise quarterback should provide stability. With J.J., consistency was an issue,” a source mentioned.

Despite Max Brosmer being suggested as a potential starter, the Vikings opted for Murray, following McCarthy’s performance of completing 57.6% of his passes, recording 11 touchdowns, and throwing 12 interceptions in 10 games. Minnesota recorded a 6-4 record in that span, prompting them to seek quarterback options.

Kyler Murray, the former No. 1 draft pick from the Arizona Cardinals, joins the Vikings after an uneven period with his former team. Before facing the New York Giants in the preseason of the 2026 NFL season, the Vikings announced Murray as their starter. Defensive coaches believe McCarthy still has talent and could start elsewhere in the future if he manages his game better.

McCarthy finds himself as a backup now, with his future uncertain. The Vikings have a new GM, Nolan Teasley, who has no ties to McCarthy’s selection. Injuries have limited McCarthy post his successful college career with Michigan. At just 23, he still has potential growth and development ahead, but needs to prove his capabilities further.

Meanwhile, Murray is the trusted choice for O’Connell, who previously revitalized Sam Darnold’s career, leading him to a Super Bowl win with the Seattle Seahawks. Vikings fans hope O’Connell can similarly revitalize Murray’s career.

In a preseason game against the Giants, McCarthy completed four out of seven passes for 34 yards. Carson Wentz, competing for the backup role, went 6-of-11 for 56 yards with a touchdown. Murray played the opening series, connecting on two of his three passes and contributing to a scoring drive.

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