NFL Rumors: Vikings Could Make Shocking Move With J.J. McCarthy

The Minnesota Vikings face growing speculation about the future of rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy following a remarkable season from veteran Sam Darnold. 

Drafted 10th overall in 2024, McCarthy was expected to be Minnesota’s quarterback of the future, but a season-ending knee injury delayed his NFL debut. In his absence, Darnold stepped up and delivered a career-best performance, leading the Vikings to a 14-3 record with 35 touchdowns and earning Pro Bowl honors. 

With Darnold set to become a free agent and expected to command a lucrative contract, analysts are debating whether Minnesota should trade McCarthy and commit to Darnold long-term.

"I think Sam Darnold has proved that he's more than good enough in this Vikings offense..

I think Minnesota will look to trade JJ McCarthy"@Espngreeny #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/nuNjqaSGkv

— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) January 7, 2025

ESPN’s Mike Greenberg has suggested the Vikings explore a trade for McCarthy, calling him “a No. 1 pick in this year’s draft class” and a highly valuable asset. 

Greenberg proposed that quarterback-needy teams such as the New York Jets, Tennessee Titans, or Seattle Seahawks could offer significant returns, possibly a first-round pick, for the former Michigan star. “If you’re a team that has a top-10 pick and needs a quarterback, why wouldn’t you trade that to Minnesota?” he asked. 

Despite the speculation, NFL Media’s Tom Pelissero reported that the Vikings have “no plans to trade McCarthy,” citing the organization’s belief in his untapped potential.

JJ McCarthy highlights to cleanse the timeline.#SKOL pic.twitter.com/0uIBqfYhIk

— Dustin (@Dust_Vikings) January 7, 2025

The decision hinges on whether Minnesota extends Darnold, which could cement him as their starter and fuel trade talks for McCarthy. 

Head coach Kevin O’Connell is reportedly supportive of keeping both quarterbacks, but rival teams remain intrigued by McCarthy’s upside. With playoff aspirations and looming offseason decisions, the Vikings must weigh the potential returns for McCarthy against the risks of letting Darnold walk in free agency. 

As Greenberg put it, “It’s a risky roll of the dice to let Darnold out of the building right now,” and any move involving McCarthy would significantly reshape the franchise’s future.

Photo Credit: Brad Rempel-Imagn Images