Former top-ten NFL pick might be on the verge of being released just two years into his career
· Yahoo Sports
Minnesota Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy’s NFL future is in danger two years into his career after losing the QB1 spot and potentially being downgraded even further.
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McCarthy led the Michigan Wolverines to an undefeated national championship win in 2024, replicating the feat of a modern QB like Joe Burrow and building incredible hype for his NFL future.
The Vikings committed their No. 10 pick to McCarthy, but just two seasons later, it looks like they might be forced to move on after McCarthy’s terrible stint in the NFL so far.
J.J. McCarthy could be on the cut bubble amid battle to remain QB2
After reports confirmed that McCarthy was already splitting QB2 reps with Carson Wentz after losing QB1 to Kyler Murray, NBC Sports has openly speculated that the Vikings might need to cut McCarthy.
“With Max Brosmer also on the roster, McCarthy could be in danger of not being on the roster by Sunday, when the rosters reduce to 53.”
“The Vikings undoubtedly would try to trade him, since the balance of his 2026 pay ($1.075 million) and all of his 2027 compensation ($3.775 million) are fully guaranteed. The Vikings may have to pay a significant chunk of the money in order to facilitate a deal.
Photo by Bailey Hillesheim/Icon Sportswire via Getty ImagesWentz spent the last season as McCarthy’s backup. Although he didn’t shine, he performed competently enough for the Vikings to still end the year with a 9-8 record despite poor QB play.
McCarthy went 40-of-243 (57.6%) for 1,632 yards, 11 TDs, 12 INTs, and a 72.6 passer rating last season, falling well below the marks of what’s needed from an average QB, let alone elite.
If the Vikings believe McCarthy’s future is beyond their grasp, using two veteran QBs in the interim to stay competitive might be better than forcing developmental reps on a young QB they deem not ready to help them win games.
Waiving McCarthy just two seasons after selecting him at No. 10 would be extreme, so the Vikings likely will enter the season with him on the roster.
But if he cannot find a way into the team’s QB rotation over the season, finding any potential trade partners will be a priority before waiving him outright, just for some other NFL team to try and see if McCarthy’s potential can be redeemed.
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