The Minnesota Vikings finished the 2025 campaign with a 7-8 record, missing the playoffs and falling short of expectations. Much of the disappointment centered on second-year quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who struggled to deliver consistent results in his first full season as a starter.
A major hurdle for McCarthy was his recurring health issues. Having lost his entire rookie year to a knee injury, he faced further setbacks in 2025.
He was sidelined for five games due to a high-ankle sprain, sat out another because of a concussion, and was ruled out for the holiday matchup against the Detroit Lions after suffering a hairline fracture in his throwing hand—an issue that could extend into the final week against Green Bay.
Despite these challenges, McCarthy showed flashes of potential. He secured key road wins against divisional rivals Chicago and Detroit early in the year. Additionally, he delivered strong performances in consecutive triumphs over Washington in Week 15 and Dallas in Week 16.
Once it became evident that the young passer could not match the impressive output of Sam Darnold from the previous year—when the Vikings achieved a 14-3 mark and reached the postseason with a roster many viewed as less talented—attention shifted to McCarthy’s long-term growth.
On December 23, general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah spoke openly during a radio appearance on KFAN with host Paul Allen. He shared his current assessment of McCarthy, whom the team selected 10th overall in the 2024 draft, and provided insight into the quarterback’s path forward.
“There’s just been growth moments,” Adofo-Mensah said. “A lot of young quarterbacks, when they get pressure in their face, they’re trying to bail out the back. He’s very good about getting up in the pocket either to make scrambles or make good decisions.”
“It’s about being Clark Kent [and] Superman,” Adofo-Mensah said. “I think that we’re seeing him put the cape on a couple times, three times, four times a game — but also do the Clark Kent things, the boring things that really just matriculate offensive football down the field. So those are the things that I’m really excited to see. And then just the preparation, showing up a week of practice, getting the game plan, doing all those great things. Being there for his team is really exciting to see.”
Looking ahead to 2026, the organization appears prepared to add a seasoned quarterback for depth, guarding against potential further absences for McCarthy.
There is also the possibility of pursuing a more proven option who could push for playing time.
Nevertheless, Adofo-Mensah’s remarks suggest the franchise remains committed to allowing McCarthy opportunities to establish himself as the primary starter entering his third professional season.
The duration of that opportunity may hinge on his ability to remain healthy and perform effectively, marking a critical juncture for the team’s direction at the position.
