J.J. McCarthy is the presumed starting quarterback for the 2025 Minnesota Vikings, but the specter of Aaron Rodgers remains out there with the veteran signal-caller still unsigned. The Vikings have touched base with Rodgers’ camp, but head coach Kevin O’Connell has yet to announce who will take the first snap in Week 1.
McCarthy, the Vikings’ 2024 first-round draft pick who missed all of last season due to a knee injury, appeared on the “Up and Adams” show Tuesday and was asked by host Kay Adams if he’s been informed that he is the team’s No. 1 quarterback heading into next season.
“Um, they haven’t told me,” said the 22-year-old McCarthy. “I’m happy they didn’t because I’m trying to earn that every single day. I never want that to be given to me. It’s such a privilege and opportunity to give me that chance and I’m just going to make the most of that every single day.”
NFL teams have reportedly contacted the Vikings about McCarthy’s availability in a trade but have been told he’s staying put and is their starter going forward. The Michigan product is in the franchise’s long-term plans, but there was a thought that Rodgers, who was said to be intrigued by the Minnesota move, could be a short-term option, especially since McCarthy hasn’t done any football activity since last August.
As for his health, McCarthy told Adams he’s feeling “100%.”
“Just staying consistent with the rehab process and not wavering from that and staying disciplined with all the outside stuff,” McCarthy said
As McCarthy waits to hear officially that he’s the team’s No. 1 in 2025, Rodgers remains unsigned. The Pittsburgh Steelers look like Rodgers’ best suitor if he doesn’t call it a career. The New York Giants, who were reportedly chasing Rodgers, signed Russell Wilson on Tuesday to a one-year deal.
