What was shaping up to be a competition for the Minnesota Vikings’ starting quarterback role in 2024 quickly ended when J.J. McCarthy tore his meniscus during the first preseason game. Sam Darnold stepped in as the starter, but with Darnold now out of the picture, the team has officially transitioned to McCarthy — a move that was always expected.
As Organized Team Activities (OTAs) have entered a more meaningful phase, McCarthy has naturally become the focal point — and perhaps even the subject of excessive praise. Every throw is praised, and the notion that he could falter before training camp has all but disappeared, dashing any wild dreams of Aaron Rodgers ending up in Minnesota.
Head coach Kevin O’Connell shared on Wednesday that nearly the entire roster was present at TCO Performance Center, noting “near 100 percent” attendance aside from a few exceptions — like guard Will Fries, who is still recovering from a broken leg and won’t be ready until training camp.
This high level of participation in voluntary OTAs reflects the team’s faith in McCarthy and indicates a lack of significant contract disputes or injury issues, aside from Fries.
After Wednesday’s practice, McCarthy was asked how it felt to return to the field after missing his rookie season due to injury.
“It feels amazing,” he said. “When it’s taken from you, you cherish every moment back out here. There’s nothing better than being on the field with the guys, playing football.”
Later, a reporter asked if he noticed any changes in himself from “two years ago” (actually just a year ago). Clarifying the question referred to physical changes, McCarthy offered a grounded response — avoiding overused phrases like “best shape of my life” — but still stoked the growing excitement.
“I honestly feel bigger, faster, stronger,” he said.
Last season, McCarthy looked like he had lost some weight during his knee rehab, which raised concerns. But he now appears to have returned to his previous form, maybe even improving physically, as many anticipated once he resumed normal training.
While coaches and teammates have been the primary sources of the McCarthy buzz so far, he’s now adding to it himself. With those three simple words — “bigger, faster, stronger” — the Vikings’ new QB has officially joined the chorus promoting his potential as the team moves through OTAs.