Could Kyler Murray Push J.J. McCarthy in Minnesota? The Vikings Face a Fascinating Offseason Decision
J.J. McCarthy’s rookie campaign with the Minnesota Vikings didn’t exactly start with fireworks.
There were growing pains-expected ones, frankly-for a young quarterback adjusting to the speed and complexity of the NFL. But the narrative is beginning to shift.
After a rocky start, McCarthy has shown real signs of progress in his last two outings, leading the Vikings to wins over the Washington Commanders and the Dallas Cowboys. He’s accounted for six total touchdowns and just one interception in those games, flashing the kind of poise and playmaking ability that made him a first-round pick.
The noise around his future? It’s quieted-for now.
But that doesn’t mean the Vikings are done evaluating the position.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, one potential offseason storyline to watch is the future of Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray. Fowler floated the Vikings as a possible landing spot, citing the fit with head coach Kevin O’Connell’s system. And while McCarthy’s recent play gives Minnesota something to build on, the idea of bringing in a player like Murray to compete is intriguing.
Murray’s Uncertain Future in Arizona
It’s been a frustrating season for Murray, who played just five games before suffering a foot sprain that’s expected to sideline him for the remainder of the year. In those five starts, the Cardinals went 2-3, and Murray completed 68.3% of his passes for 962 yards, six touchdowns, and three interceptions. He also added 173 rushing yards and another score on the ground-reminding everyone just how dynamic he can be when healthy.
But availability has been an issue. And with two years left on his contract carrying cap hits of $53 million in 2026 and $43 million in 2027, Arizona may be ready to explore trade options. If that’s the case, Minnesota could be a team to watch.
McCarthy’s Rookie Rollercoaster
McCarthy’s numbers on the season paint the picture of a quarterback still finding his footing. He’s gone 4-4 as a starter while battling through a high-ankle sprain and a concussion.
His completion percentage sits at 56.8%, with 1,342 passing yards, 11 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. He’s also chipped in 154 rushing yards and three touchdowns on the ground.
It hasn’t all been smooth, but McCarthy has shown flashes-especially in recent weeks-that suggest he’s trending in the right direction. He’s got the prototypical size, a strong arm, and enough mobility to extend plays. The Vikings have every reason to give him a real shot at developing into their long-term guy.
Still, competition never hurts.
A Potential QB Battle Worth Watching
If the Vikings were to pursue Murray, it would set up a fascinating quarterback competition in training camp. McCarthy and Murray are stylistically different-McCarthy’s more of a traditional pocket passer with mobility, while Murray is one of the most electric dual-threat quarterbacks in the league when healthy.
Murray’s athleticism is elite. He can turn broken plays into 20-yard gains with his legs and has the arm talent to make every throw.
But his height-listed under six feet-can be a challenge. He often has to move outside the pocket to find throwing lanes, something that can disrupt timing and rhythm in a structured offense.
McCarthy, on the other hand, has the physical tools teams covet in a franchise quarterback. He’s still learning, still growing, but he’s shown toughness and an ability to bounce back after mistakes. Bringing in a player like Murray would raise the bar-and force McCarthy to elevate his game even further.
The Cap Conundrum
Of course, adding Murray wouldn’t come cheap. Those cap hits-$53 million in 2026 and $43 million in 2027-are massive. The Vikings would need to do some financial gymnastics to make it work, and that’s assuming Arizona is even willing to move him.
But if Minnesota’s front office believes this roster is close to contending and wants a proven playmaker under center, it’s a move worth considering. Murray, when healthy, has shown he can win games and carry an offense. The question is whether the upside outweighs the risk-both financially and in terms of team chemistry.
What’s Next for the Vikings?
McCarthy’s recent surge gives the Vikings something to build on heading into 2026. But the quarterback room could look very different by the time training camp rolls around. Whether it’s Murray or another veteran, don’t be surprised if Minnesota brings in someone to push McCarthy and create real competition.
That’s not a knock on the young quarterback-it’s just the reality of the NFL. Jobs are earned, not given. And if McCarthy wants to be the guy in Minnesota long-term, he’ll need to keep stacking performances like the ones we’ve seen over the past two weeks.
For now, he’s silenced the doubters. But the offseason could bring a whole new set of questions.