Since his arrival in 2022, head coach Kevin O’Connell has set a clear course for the Minnesota Vikings, aiming to build a strong foundation and establish a lasting identity. This season perfectly reflects that contrast: while Sam Darnold led the offense in 2024, the focus has now shifted to JJ McCarthy as the future leader under center.
Quarterback Darnold delivered in 2024, throwing for 4,319 passing yards and recording 35 touchdowns in what became his best statistical season in the NFL. His future now lies with the Seattle Seahawks, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the Vikings.
Last season, the Vikings finished with a 14–3 record, though the campaign ended with a surprising early exit in the playoffs. With that recent result still fresh, O’Connell didn’t hold back and made his expectations for the team crystal clear.
O’Connell’s message to the Vikings
“As I told the team when we opened camp, I think the foundation is already set… now the next step is becoming truly championship-worthy,” O’Connell told NFL Network. His statement signals a clear shift in direction.
J.J. McCarthy #9 of the Minnesota Vikings participates in a drill during training camp on August 02, 2024 in Eagan, Minnesota.
The transition from Darnold to McCarthy now places the responsibility on the young quarterback to lead a team built to compete for a title. While the franchise projects him as the starter, O’Connell himself has said that McCarthy “has to earn the job.”
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McCarthy has a big opportunity ahead
McCarthy was selected with the 10th overall pick in the 2024 Draft but missed his rookie season due to a meniscus injury. Since then, he has been working through the playbook and gaining reps. His activation for the start of preseason confirms him as the leading candidate for the role and the main source of excitement in Minnesota.
