The Minnesota Vikings don’t need to trade rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy, but there is a strong argument that they should. McCarthy was the No. 10 overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft and was widely regarded as a top quarterback prospect, with a higher grade heading into those proceedings than any quarterback in the entire 2025 class.
This puts the Vikings in a favorable position, especially with several teams needing a quarterback and limited options available in both the free agency market and the upcoming draft. The demand for quarterbacks could give the Vikings leverage if they decide to put McCarthy on the trading block.
Such a decision would be made easier if the Vikings were to extend starter Sam Darnold. After a breakout year where he threw for over 4,300 yards and 35 touchdowns, the 27-year-old demonstrated that he could be a long-term solution for the team. With Darnold’s performance, Minnesota may feel confident enough in his ability to lead the team moving forward, making it possible for them to trade McCarthy without risking the stability of their quarterback situation.
- J.J. McCarthy
This context forms the basis of a trade proposal from the Bleacher Report’s NFL Scouting Department, which was released on February 3. The proposal suggests sending McCarthy to the Las Vegas Raiders in exchange for the No. 6 overall pick in the 2025 draft.
With just four total picks in this year’s draft and only two in the top 100, the Vikings could significantly improve their draft position by making this move. The Raiders, desperate for a quarterback, would be getting a highly promising talent in McCarthy, who might end up being better than any passer available in the 2025 class.
In this potential trade scenario, the Vikings would be able to add a difference-maker to their roster, strengthening their chances for future success. The 21-year-old McCarthy, who showed immense potential during his time at Michigan, could serve as a major asset to a team like the Raiders, who need a quarterback to build around. By making this deal, the Vikings could set themselves up with a better draft haul while also securing their future with Darnold, positioning themselves for a promising outlook in the seasons to come.
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