TEAM-NEWS; Unexpected Outcome As Promising Minnesota Vikings News With J.J. McCarthy Injury Update Entering Offseason – Should They Keep Him Or Trade Him?

The Minnesota Vikings’ 2024 season was saved by their decision to sign Sam Darnold early in free agency. After J.J. McCarthy, the team’s top pick in the 2024 draft, suffered a season-ending torn meniscus in his first preseason game, Darnold stepped in and had a breakout year. His impressive performance helped lead the Vikings to the playoffs, sparking debates over who should be the starting quarterback in 2025.

McCarthy, the 10th overall pick, was expected to be the Vikings’ starter, but his injury sidelined him for the entire season, giving Darnold the chance to shine. The 27-year-old finished the regular season with 4,319 passing yards and 35 touchdowns, ranking among the top quarterbacks in the league. However, his late-season struggles, including a poor performance in Week 18 and a loss in the Wild Card Round to the Los Angeles Rams, raised questions about his long-term future with the team.

Before his mid-season collapse, Darnold was projected to land a lucrative multi-year deal worth $40 million per year in free agency. Now, after his rough finish, the expected deal value has dropped to around $35 million annually. The Vikings now face a tough decision, especially with McCarthy’s status for 2025 still uncertain. After undergoing two knee surgeries, McCarthy is expected to begin football drills soon, meaning he should be ready for OTAs in May.

McCarthy’s recovery is a key factor for the Vikings, as they might look to re-sign Darnold to a more affordable deal if his price drops further. However, with the team also considering other options, including veteran quarterbacks like Daniel Jones, the competition could raise Darnold’s asking price again. Fortunately for Minnesota, the team’s strong supporting cast, including stars like Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, and T.J. Hockenson, makes them an attractive landing spot for any quarterback.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding Darnold and McCarthy’s future, McCarthy remains the favorite to be the Vikings’ starting quarterback in 2025. The Vikings’ decision will ultimately depend on how the quarterback market unfolds in the coming months.