Minnesota Vikings fans had plenty to celebrate during the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft on Thursday night, with two Top 10 picks energizing the crowd.
The highlight for many was selecting former Michigan quarterback JJ McCarthy with the 10th overall pick.
The evening brought another surprise a few picks earlier, right after the Atlanta Falcons’ selection. In a move that stunned many, the Falcons chose quarterback Michael Penix with the eighth overall pick. This decision was particularly unexpected given Atlanta’s recent signing of former Minnesota quarterback Kirk Cousins to a substantial contract. The rationale behind this pick left many puzzled and led some to speculate about Atlanta’s confidence in Cousins.
At a draft night watch party in Minnesota, the atmosphere was electric, especially when the emcee made a pointed joke about the Falcons’ decision, saying, “It took the Falcons 1 month to figure out what the Vikings needed 6 years to figure out!” The remark drew laughter and cheers from Vikings fans.
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The anticipation in Minnesota was palpable when McCarthy’s name was announced. Given his successful college career in the Big Ten and his national championship victory, local fans are well-acquainted with McCarthy and eager to see if he can elevate the team’s performance.
Kirk Cousins did lead the Vikings to some successes, including two playoff appearances over six years, with a postseason record of 1-2. However, the team often fell short of deeper success, prompting a readiness among fans and the franchise to transition to a new era with McCarthy.
As McCarthy steps into his new role, the question remains: can he succeed where Cousins didn’t? Only time will tell, but it’s clear that the Vikings community is ready to embrace this new chapter, with little sentimentality for the Cousins era.
