The Vikings have made their choice at quarterback.
Minnesota is going with Kyler Murray as their signal-caller, the team announced Tuesday, bailing on third-year quarterback J.J. McCarthy.
The Vikings selected McCarthy with the No. 10 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, but now his time with the franchise could be numbered.
J.J. McCarthy and Kyler Murray of the Minnesota Vikings participate in a drill during training camp at Twin Cities Orthopedics Performance Center in Eagan, Minnesota, on Saturday, August 1, 2026. (2026 Getty Images) Getty Images
The decision comes days before the Vikings play their preseason opener on Saturday against the Giants.
Murray signed a one-year deal with the Vikings this offseason after being released by the Cardinals.
The former No. 1 overall pick in the 2019 draft won the Offensive Rookie of the Year and is a two time pro bowler in 2020 and 2021, though he’s taken a significant downturn in recent years.
Injuries have been a major factor in his career; he played in just five games last season and only 30 of a possible 51.
Though McCarthy hasn’t exactly been the symbol of health in his career either.
Ahead of his rookie season, McCarthy suffered a torn right meniscus and missed the whole season and also missed five games last season due to a high ankle sprain.
Kyler Murray will be the man under center for the Vikings in Week 1. Getty Images
McCarthy threw 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions during an uneven sophomore campaign and now finds himself in a backup role in Minnesota just one season after the Vikings chose him over Sam Darnold – who immediately turned around and won the Super Bowl in Seattle.
Murray played in just five games last year, throwing for 962 yards, six touchdowns and three interceptions while adding 173 rushing yards and a touchdown for Arizona.
The Vikings will host the Packers in Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season.