The Battle for Vikings’ QB Spot: McCarthy’s Uphill Climb

The Minnesota Vikings’ quarterback room has undergone a significant makeover this offseason, and rookie J.J. McCarthy might find himself at the bottom of the depth chart. According to recent reports, McCarthy is trailing behind veteran signal-callers Sam Darnold and Nick Mullens.

Vikings QB competition heats up

As of May 29, the Vikings’ QB Week 1 odds stood at:

• Sam Darnold: -200 (bet $10 to win $15 total)
• J.J. McCarthy: +150 (bet $10 to win $25 total)

However, these odds might shift once they’re back on the board.

“It looks like J.J. McCarthy is two or three on the depth chart, squarely behind Sam Darnold,” co-host Jason McIntyre explained on Monday’s episode of “The Herd.” “And there are some reports that Nick Mullens is getting a lot of second-team reps in practice.”

Jason McIntyre shares his insights on The Herd

The Vikings have revamped their QB room, signing veteran QB Sam Darnold to a one-year deal and drafting Michigan standout J.J. McCarthy with the 10th pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Sam Darnold, 26, was drafted with the No. 3 pick in 2018 by the Jets. He’s had stints with the Panthers and 49ers, boasting a 21-35 record as a starter with a career QB rating of 78.3.

Sam Darnold’s NFL journey

Nick Mullens, the other player in the Vikings’ QB conversation, is in his sixth season and came into the league as an undrafted free agent. He’s played for the 49ers, Eagles, Browns, and Raiders.

Nick Mullens’ NFL journey

Now, let’s focus on McCarthy.

The Michigan product was one of six QBs taken in the first 12 picks and is coming off a national title win with the Wolverines.

J.J. McCarthy’s college highlights

McCarthy, 21, started 29 games for the Maize and Blue over the last two seasons, suffering just a single loss. However, he never threw for 3,000 yards in a season, with a total of 5,710 passing yards and 44 touchdowns over the past two seasons.

Michigan Wolverines football

At DraftKings, McCarthy is third on the oddsboard to have the most passing yards as a rookie, behind Caleb Williams at +100 and Jayden Daniels at +250.

DraftKings NFL odds

He’s also fourth on the oddsboard to win Offensive Rookie of the Year at +1200.

NFL Rookie of the Year odds