Minnesota Vikings fans have a reason to celebrate: Sam Darnold is no longer the guaranteed starter for Week 1.
According to ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter, rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy has signed his rookie contract. The agreement is a four-year deal worth $21.85 million, including a $12.71 million signing bonus. Importantly, the contract is fully guaranteed.
“Sources: Minnesota Vikings No. 10 overall pick J.J. McCarthy is signing a four-year, fully-guaranteed contract worth $21.85 million that includes a $12.71 million signing bonus and a fifth-year team option,” Schefter reported.
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While this development doesn’t necessarily fast-track McCarthy to start in Week 1 against the New York Giants, it ensures his full participation in training camp and preseason games, barring any unforeseen circumstances.
McCarthy was a somewhat controversial pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Despite leading Michigan to back-to-back College Football Playoff appearances and a national title this past year, there were questions about whether his college success would translate to the NFL.
However, the Vikings have shown confidence in head coach Kevin O’Connell’s judgment by selecting McCarthy as their potential quarterback of the future—or possibly the present. McCarthy will presumably compete with journeyman Darnold for the starting role during training camp.
The excitement surrounding McCarthy’s signing marks a significant moment for the Vikings. While it’s uncertain if McCarthy will start the season under center or holding a clipboard, his presence in the roster provides a promising outlook for Minnesota’s quarterback situation.
The Vikings’ fanbase eagerly awaits to see if McCarthy can live up to his college reputation and potentially reshape the team’s future. As the training camp progresses, all eyes will be on McCarthy and Darnold to see who will earn the starting spot.
