The Minnesota Vikings are gearing up for the 2026 season with a unique approach to their quarterback lineup. This year, they’re banking on J.J.
McCarthy to rediscover his form, while also being strongly linked to former No. 1 pick Kyler Murray. It's an intriguing mix, especially considering the Vikings' recent history.
Back in 2024, the Vikings had a different look under center. Sam Darnold, fresh off a Super Bowl win, was in the midst of a breakout season as their starter, with Daniel Jones, formerly of the New York Giants, backing him up. Jones has since moved on to the Indianapolis Colts, where he’s found stability and a lucrative two-year deal worth up to $100 million, despite an Achilles injury last season.
Jones delivered solid performances in Indianapolis, throwing 19 touchdowns against eight interceptions in just 10 starts before his injury. His early success had the Colts looking like one of the AFC's top contenders, and head coach Shane Steichen is optimistic about his return to form.
For the Vikings, the decision to let Jones walk and not secure him as a backup for McCarthy has been a point of contention. When McCarthy struggled, the team turned to Carson Wentz, and eventually Max Brosmer, after Wentz's injury derailed their plans. This quarterback shuffle contributed to a disappointing 2025 campaign.
The shift from Darnold to McCarthy was a bold move, rooted in the investment the Vikings made in McCarthy as a Top 10 pick. However, not retaining Jones led to a scramble for backup options, impacting their season and shaping the Colts' future.
If the McCarthy-Murray duo doesn't pan out, the decision to let both Darnold and Jones leave could be a defining moment for head coach Kevin O'Connell and general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah. The Vikings are hoping their gamble pays off, but the pressure is on to make this quarterback experiment work.