Minnesota Vikings Kevin O’Connell Sounds Less Enthused About QB JJ McCarthy

Matt Brown
Minnesota Vikings J.J. McCarthy leaves game with a hand injury.

Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell has been noticeably less enthusiastic about quarterback J.J. McCarthy this offseason, a stark contrast to his glowing endorsement of the young signal-caller just a year ago. As the Vikings evaluate their quarterback situation heading into 2026, O’Connell’s comments suggest a shift in confidence that could have significant implications for both McCarthy and the team.

A Year of Change For The Minnesota Vikings

Last offseason, O’Connell was all-in on McCarthy, describing him as the Vikings’ “franchise quarterback” despite the young player missing his rookie season due to a meniscus injury. The team moved on from Sam Darnold, who had led them to a 14-win season, and placed their faith in McCarthy as the future of the franchise.

However, McCarthy’s first full season as a starter in 2025 was a mixed bag. While he showed flashes of potential, his performance was inconsistent, and injuries continued to be a concern. The Vikings missed the playoffs, and O’Connell’s tone has since shifted. This offseason, he has emphasized the need for a more competitive quarterback room, signaling that McCarthy’s status as the unquestioned starter is no longer guaranteed.

O’Connell’s Comments Reflect Growing Pressure

Kevin O’Connell’s tempered enthusiasm for McCarthy comes as the head coach faces mounting pressure to deliver results. After winning NFL Coach of the Year in 2024, O’Connell has yet to secure a playoff victory, and the Minnesota Vikings’ ownership is reportedly expecting a postseason appearance in 2026. With his job potentially on the line, O’Connell appears to be hedging his bets at the quarterback position.

In recent comments, O’Connell stopped short of committing to McCarthy as the team’s starter for 2026. Instead, he and general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah have stressed the importance of creating depth and competition in the quarterback room. According to ESPN, the Vikings are exploring options to bring in a starting-caliber quarterback to compete with McCarthy during training camp.

The Vikings’ Quarterback Dilemma

The Vikings’ approach to the quarterback position this offseason reflects lessons learned from 2025, when a lack of depth at the position proved costly. McCarthy’s injuries forced the team to rely on undrafted rookie Max Brosmer, who struggled in limited action. This time around, the Vikings are determined to avoid a similar scenario.

Potential options for the Vikings include pursuing a veteran quarterback in free agency or exploring trade opportunities. Names like Mac Jones, Kyler Murray, and Malik Willis have been floated as possible targets. The team could also consider drafting a quarterback, though that would likely depend on their confidence in McCarthy’s long-term potential.

What’s Next for McCarthy and the Vikings?

For McCarthy, the 2026 season will be a make-or-break year. If he can stay healthy and deliver consistent performances, he could solidify his status as the Vikings’ quarterback of the future. However, a slow start or continued struggles could prompt the team to pivot in a different direction.

As for O’Connell, his ability to navigate the quarterback situation will be critical to his future in Minnesota. With the pressure to win mounting, the head coach must strike a delicate balance between developing McCarthy and ensuring the team is competitive in the short term.

The Vikings’ offseason moves will provide further clarity on their quarterback strategy, but one thing is clear: the days of McCarthy being the unquestioned starter are over. For both McCarthy and O’Connell, the stakes have never been higher.