Vikings Offense Struggles with J.J. McCarthy at Training Camp, Looks Nothing Like CFP-Winning Michigan Wolverines QB
DOUGLAS COUNTY, MINNESOTA, AUG 2 – Rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy is improving by 2% each practice as he adapts to the Vikings' complex defense after missing his first season due to knee surgery.
- On Jul 29, 2025, Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy participated in a full-pads practice in Eagan, Minnesota, after missing his rookie season with a knee injury.
- As a 2024 first-round pick, McCarthy sat out last year after meniscus tear surgery, with the Vikings taking extensive action to minimize his lost season.
- During camp drills against Brian Flores' defense, McCarthy displayed mixed accuracy but hit Jordan Addison for a touchdown in red zone sessions.
- Head coach Kevin O'Connell praised McCarthy's progress, noting improvements in techniques, fundamentals, and communication amid increasing defensive pressure.
- Looking ahead, more on-field reps and the Vikings' audio, video and weekly meetings with coach O'Connell will be key to his continued development.
19 Articles
19 Articles

Takeaways from Day 9 of Vikings training camp
As he discussed young quarterback J.J. McCarthy this week, going into detail about some ups and downs he’s experienced, head coach Kevin O’Connell made a point to look up toward the heavens. “The sky has not fallen,” O’Connell said. “We’re all good.” After garnering a laugh from the reporters in attendance, O’Connell acknowledged some of the struggles McCarthy has been forced to navigate against an aggressive group of defenders on the other end.…
Vikings' J.J. McCarthy Sends Message on Getting Ready for Season
As Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy gets ready for his first season as a full-time starter, he has every reason to be confident.McCarthy, the Vikings’ first-round pick in 2024, had to wait a year due to meniscus tear surgery. He watched former Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold lead the team to a 14-3 record and a playoff appearance amid big numbers — a 66.2% completion rate for 4,319 yards and 35 touchdowns versus 12 interceptions and a…
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