Minnesota Vikings weigh J.J. McCarthy trade value amid QB battle

The Minnesota Vikings enter the 2026 preseason with a contested quarterback hierarchy. First‑round pick J.J. McCarthy and former Pro Bowl quarterback Kyler Murray, acquired on a $1.3 million contract, are both slated to compete for the starting role. Reporters note that if Murray secures the job, the Vikings could consider moving McCarthy, who has started ten games in two seasons. Sports columnist Charley Walters estimates McCarthy’s trade value at roughly a fourth‑round draft pick.

The team also faces depth questions at other positions, with competition for the wide‑receiver slot (Tai Felton, Myles Price, Dillon Bell) and the interior line (Michael Jurgens, Gavin Gerhardt) highlighted as the Vikings finalize their roster ahead of training camp.