
The Vikings are 3–4, sitting in last place in the NFC North. If they’re going to climb out of the division basement and into contention, it’ll be because of J.J. McCarthy.
McCarthy, 22, has primarily been persona non grata for the Vikings since being drafted 10th in the 2024 NFL draft. He’s played in two of a possible 24 regular-season games. Last year, McCarthy’s absence wasn’t a problem. Minnesota went 14–3, Sam Darnold revived his career while throwing for 4,319 yards and 35 touchdowns, and the Vikings earned a wild-card berth.