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2w ago

Vikings Confirm Kyler Murray As Starter While McCarthy's Backup Role Stays In Flux

Coach Kevin O’Connell is keeping the QB room competitive so coming joint practices and a preseason start will shape whether J.J. McCarthy holds the No.2 job or loses roster value.

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Aug 15, 2026; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kyler Murray (1) hands off to running back Jordan Mason (27) during the first quarter against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Sep 29, 2024; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; General view of a Minnesota Vikings helmet during warmups prior to the game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • Kyler Murray has been named the Vikings’ Week 1 starting quarterback and will take first-team reps in the opener.
  • J.J. McCarthy is currently listed as the Vikings’ QB2 but coach Kevin O’Connell has not guaranteed the role and says he wants the room to remain competitive.
  • Veteran Carson Wentz delivered a stronger showing than McCarthy in the preseason opener, creating a credible challenge for the backup spot.
  • O’Connell said McCarthy is “more than likely” to start the team’s next preseason game, and performance in that game plus joint practices will be decisive for depth-chart, roster and trade decisions.
  • Media analysts have floated trade packages if McCarthy falls to QB3, but his draft pedigree, remaining rookie contract and the Vikings’ need for a reliable backup make a deal uncertain and may limit his market value.