The Minnesota Vikings’ offseason started earlier than they would have liked.
They now face crucial decisions, none bigger than what to do with their quarterback situation.
The choice between keeping Sam Darnold or handing the reins to J.J. McCarthy weighs heavily on the franchise’s future.
McCarthy, the No. 10 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft who missed the season after suffering a preseason knee injury, recently addressed both his rehabilitation and his outlook for the 2025 season.
He also revealed to Sports Illustrated how difficult it was to be sidelined, especially while watching other rookie quarterbacks succeed around the league.
“I’m gonna say it’s a caged animal that’s been climbing uphill for a long time,” McCarthy said, via The Purple Persuasion.
How hungry is @Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy to prove himself this year given the success of the 2024 rookie QB class?
“[I’m] a caged animal that’s been climbing uphill for a long time.”
?: @SInow pic.twitter.com/R3fBbMKCT1
— The Purple Persuasion (@TPPSkol) February 4, 2025
The Vikings received encouraging news about McCarthy’s recovery, as he’s progressing ahead of schedule and has been cleared for nearly all activities.
Following a minor cleanup procedure in a second surgery, he’s entering the offseason without restrictions.
McCarthy has met all recovery milestones, boosting the Vikings’ confidence in his potential to take over as their starting quarterback in 2025.
While McCarthy’s progress doesn’t necessarily signal the end of Darnold’s tenure with the Vikings, it does provide them with additional flexibility.
Though a long-term contract for Darnold seems unlikely at this point, the one-season franchise tag remains a possibility.
As the Vikings plan for 2025, McCarthy’s recovery marks a significant development, even as uncertainty continues to surround Darnold’s future.
NEXT: Insider Reveals What He's Hearing About Sam Darnold's Future With Vikings
