Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy. Brad Rempel-Imagn Images

Vikings get big J.J. McCarthy update amid Sam Darnold news

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nathan Dougherty | Last updated Mar 10, 2025 8:57 AM ET

The Minnesota Vikings have some clarity at quarterback after a murky offseason, with Sam Darnold likely on the outs and J.J. McCarthy nearing a big return.

The Vikings faced a big decision at quarterback after a career resurgence from Darnold, who took over starting duties after the rookie McCarthy's season-ending knee injury and led the team to a 14-3 record.

Though the Vikings had a disappointing playoff exit, losing in the wild-card round to the Los Angeles Rams, there had been speculation that Darnold may have earned himself a return after the conclusion of his one-year contract.

That may not be the case. NFL Network insiders Ian Rapoport, Tom Pelissero and Mike Garafolo reported on Saturday that Darnold would not be returning to Minnesota and was ready to explore other free agency destinations.

The report added an update on McCarthy, who is nearing a return to the field after his injury but could face more veteran competition.

"The Vikings' first-round pick J.J. McCarthy (knee) is expected to be cleared to practice this spring after missing his rookie season and could see his time coming in 2025, but Minnesota still wants to add a veteran," the report noted, citing Pelissero.

Ben Goessling of The Minnesota Star Tribune added that McCarthy has been getting back into playing shape, but the Vikings are still keen to bring in a steady hand to compete for the starting job.

"He’s back over 200 pounds, and has been able to do on-field work since January, but since he hasn’t practiced since his injury in August, the Vikings are unlikely to leave themselves without another option in case McCarthy has a setback or struggles in camp," Goessling wrote.

The Vikings head into free agency with close to $60M in cap space, giving them room to be aggressive in filling holes.

The NFL Network report noted that the Vikings may be interested in bringing back former New York Giants starter Daniel Jones, who signed late in the season following his release. Veteran Aaron Rodgers was named as a "dark horse" candidate to sign, a move that would likely relegate McCarthy to the No. 2 position.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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