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3w ago

Vikings Name Kyler Murray Starter, J.J. McCarthy Relegated to Backup

Coach Kevin O'Connell cited Murray's scheme comfort and playmaking and the choice raises fresh trade talk about McCarthy and short-term pressure on Minnesota's offense.

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Jan 4, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) warms up prior to the game against the Green Bay Packers at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • Coach Kevin O'Connell formally announced on Tuesday that Kyler Murray will start for the Vikings in Week 1 after a 10-practice training-camp evaluation.
  • O'Connell said he picked Murray because of his comfort in the offense, his playmaking upside, and the potential Murray showed in camp.
  • J.J. McCarthy was named the No. 2 quarterback and told reporters the decision was out of his control and that he wants to remain with the team.
  • Multiple NFL insiders and reports say McCarthy’s standing in Minnesota has weakened and that he could be shopped before the season or at the trade deadline.
  • The move raises immediate pressure on Murray to perform, places a spotlight on reported tension between McCarthy and O'Connell, and makes the Vikings' preseason games, starting Aug. 15 at MetLife, a key window for roster and trade-market movement.