J.J. McCarthy, the rookie quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings, has officially signed his four-year contract worth $21.85 million with a $12.71 million signing bonus. This deal includes a team option for a fifth season, providing security for both McCarthy and the Vikings. The signing comes just in time for the upcoming training camp, allowing McCarthy to fully participate with the team.
As the No. 10 overall pick in the 2024 draft, McCarthy was a highly anticipated selection by the Vikings. He is expected to step into the role of the franchise quarterback following Kirk Cousins’ departure. McCarthy’s successful collegiate career, which culminated in leading the Wolverines to a College Football Playoff National Championship, solidified his position as a top-10 pick.
Looking ahead, the focus now shifts to McCarthy’s development and potential ascent to the top of the quarterback depth chart. While he is viewed as the future QB1 for the Vikings, the team also has veteran Sam Darnold on the roster, providing options for the starting role. Head coach Kevin O’Connell emphasized the importance of considering the team’s best interests when deciding on McCarthy’s transition to a starting role.
“It’s just more about what is in the best interest of the organization,” O’Connell explained. “Those circumstances cannot affect what J.J.’s development plan is or any other player on the team for that matter. It just can’t be something that selfishly ever impacts that decision.”
The Vikings’ training camp is set to begin on Saturday, July 27, giving McCarthy the opportunity to showcase his skills and compete for the starting position. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on McCarthy as he navigates his rookie year in the NFL and works towards establishing himself as a key player for the Vikings.