Minnesota Vikings demote J.J. McCarthy to QB3

Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell has demoted former first-round draft pick J.J. McCarthy to the third quarterback on the depth chart. Following the preseason, the team officially named Kyler Murray as the starter, with veteran Carson Wentz designated as the backup for the upcoming Week 1 game against the Green Bay Packers.

O’Connell cited Wentz’s experience, noting his nearly 100 career starts, as a primary reason for the decision to prioritize veteran stability while helping Murray adjust. McCarthy’s recent struggles include inconsistent preseason play and reports that he did not feel comfortable taking the field during a scheduled preseason game against the Denver Broncos.

Despite speculation regarding a potential trade before the mid-season deadline, NFL insider Adam Schefter suggests that McCarthy and the Vikings are likely to remain together through the current season. McCarthy has previously expressed a desire to stay in Minnesota.