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Jefferson Puts Heat on J.J. McCarthy as Vikings' QB Competition Takes Shape

He called Kyler Murray's arrival pressure meant to speed McCarthy's growth.

Overview

  • Jefferson, who spoke Monday at the start of offseason workouts, said McCarthy must “step it up” with Murray in the room and that feeling pressure can help him lock in.
  • The Vikings signed Murray to a one-year deal on March 13 and re-signed Carson Wentz, with coach Kevin O’Connell keeping an open competition and declining to name a Week 1 starter.
  • Trade talk around McCarthy has intensified, with Yahoo’s Charles Robinson urging a deal during or right after the draft while others question his market and push back on Rams trade ideas.
  • McCarthy missed his rookie year with a knee injury, then posted a 72.6 passer rating with 12 interceptions and low on-target rates across 10 starts in 2025.
  • McCarthy is under contract through 2027, and if Murray wins the job he may battle Wentz for the No. 2 role while a strong summer showing could reshape any trade outlook.