With the Vikings and J.J. McCarthy under pressure following Kyler Murray’s arrival, the offseason storyline has focused primarily on the offense. However, the defense has its own compelling narrative.

Harrison Smith has been under the spotlight in recent weeks. Rumors about his retirement have swirled throughout Minnesota, but the safety has left the door open to returning for “one last ride” with the team that drafted him 14 years ago.

“It’s been a few days, but now that you remind me, I’ll probably bug him today,” O’Connell said about Smith, via the team’s website. “It’s something [where] we’re still trying to give Harrison as much space as possible, and I think he’s earned that. If it’s anything at this point, it’s seeing how he’s doing, seeing how his family is, seeing how his golf game is.”

The offense remains the biggest question mark for the Vikings

Last year, the Vikings started the season with J.J. McCarthy as QB1 after he suffered a tough knee injury in 2024. However, he suffered another injury, forcing Carson Wentz to step in as his replacement.

Unfortunately, a string of injuries led to a weak offensive line that struggled to protect Wentz as well. After Wentz was sidelined, Maxx Brosmer was tasked with leading the unit.

Now, Kyler Murray is expected to take over as QB1 in a fierce competition with McCarthy. It is vital that Murray remains healthy, or the Vikings could face the same depth issues that derailed their 2025 campaign.

An intriguing NFC North landscape

Last year, the Chicago Bears dominated the NFC North against all odds, finishing 11–6. The Green Bay Packers followed them to clinch a Wild Card spot, only to lose to the Bears in the postseason.

While the Detroit Lions disappointed many, they are expected to bounce back in 2026. This leaves the Vikings with their backs against the wall, relying on a high-stakes quarterback competition to potentially save their season and return Minnesota to the playoffs.

“I’m definitely looking for those big, exciting plays [from Murray],” Jefferson said, via ESPN. “I’m definitely looking forward to his speed, his quickness, his arm strength that he’s shown countless times over the years. And then for J.J., for somebody to enter that room with that type of ability, that type of talent, he’s got to step it up a little bit.

“So it’s good for him to feel that type of pressure and to really lock in a little bit and say, ‘It’s either now or I’m going to take that back seat again.’ So it’s all a competitive mindset when it comes to these type of things. So it’s all about who’s ready for that moment and who’s ready to step up and take that initiative.”

J.J. McCarthy will have to prove why he wants to be QB1

In his 2025 campaign with the Vikings, J.J. McCarthy struggled to find his rhythm after missing his entire rookie year due to knee surgery. In 10 games played, he recorded 1,632 passing yards, 11 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions, finishing with a modest 72.6 passer rating.

His development was further hampered by a series of injuries, including a high ankle sprain, a concussion, and a hairline fracture in his right hand late in the season. These physical setbacks, combined with high sack rates and inconsistent accuracy, made for a difficult second year as he adjusted to the speed of the NFL.

The experience of Kyler Murray arrives in the NFC North

Throughout his seven seasons in the NFL, Kyler Murray has established himself as a premier dual-threat quarterback, totaling 20,460 passing yards, 121 passing touchdowns, and 32 rushing scores. While his 2025 campaign with the Cardinals was cut short by a foot injury—limiting him to 962 yards and 6 touchdowns in just five games—his career production remains elite when healthy.

Entering 2026 on a one-year deal with the Vikings, Murray is positioned to use this season as a critical springboard. By playing under a contract that prohibits the franchise tag, he aims to showcase his skills with Jefferson and the different weapons in Kevin O’Connell’s offense to regain his status as a top-tier starter. His ultimate goal is to leverage a strong performance this year into a massive, multi-year extension as an unrestricted free agent in 2027.

The failed J. J. McCarthy–Justin Jefferson connection in 2025

In the most recent season, the on-field chemistry between Justin Jefferson and J. J. McCarthy wasn’t at its best. The wide receiver recorded a career-low 1,048 receiving yards on 84 receptions with two touchdowns across 17 games. The only other time in his six-year career that he failed to surpass 1,400 yards was in 2023, when he appeared in just 10 games due to injury (1,074 yards).

Still, Jefferson expressed satisfaction with the quarterback room and the internal competition they will have.

“It’s really good to get some good talent in the room to give a little spark in that room. To see a competitive edge and from those guys to really lock in and to do what we’re expecting them to do, which is to come in and to be that guy. And we need that one guy for this team,” Jefferson said.

“So I’m definitely excited for that room, excited to see what those guys have in store for us in training camp.”

Adam Schefter of ESPN revealed the price to pay for Greenard: “The Vikings have been adamant about getting a premium Day 2 pick for Greenard. Philadelphia holds pick Nos. 54, 68 and 98 on Day 2 this year.”

Although there is still no final resolution on the matter, adding the linebacker to its roster could be very significant for Philadelphia. What will ultimately be the destination of this talented player ahead of the next season?

Greenard’s 2025 season

During the 2025 NFL season, Jonathan Greenard continued to be a vital part of the Minnesota Vikings‘ defense, appearing in 12 games. He recorded 38 total tackles (19 solo and 19 assisted) and accounted for 3.0 sacks, contributing to a total loss of 19.5 yards for opposing offenses.

Greenard also showcased his ability to disrupt plays by forcing one fumble and recording 3 pass deflections. Despite dealing with a shoulder injury towards the end of the campaign, his efficiency remained high, earning a 74.2 overall defensive grade from PFF, which ranked him among the top edge defenders in the league.

Eagles’ options at the position

In 2026, the Eagles will have a revamped linebacker corps anchored by the standout duo of Zack Baun and Jihaad Campbell. Following the departure of Nakobe Dean to the Raiders, the unit has integrated key young talents like Jeremiah Trotter Jr. and Smael Mondon Jr., who bring a necessary blend of instincts and sideline-to-sideline speed.

Under Vic Fangio’s defensive scheme, this rotation is further bolstered by versatile edge threats like Nolan Smith Jr. and Jalyx Hunt, along with key additions Arnold Ebiketie and Joe Tryon-Shoyinka, creating a deep group capable of high-level pressure and effective coverage.

“The Vikings sure look like they’ve moved on from the former 10th overall pick (2024) by signing Kyler Murray. Given Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell’s success rate with QBs, maybe that’s a red flag for the rest of the NFL,” Ralph Vacchiano of FOX Sports wrote.

“But McCarthy is still young and has only 10 games of experience. He could benefit from learning under McVay on a loaded offensive team. And not only do the Rams need to start thinking about who their quarterback will be after 38-year-old Matthew Stafford is done, they also have to be prepared if he breaks down this season. Right now their backup is Stetson Bennett. McCarthy would at least be an upgrade over that. And that’s important for an expected Super Bowl contender.”

In addition to Murray, O’Connell has Carson Wentz and Max Brosmer on his depth chart. Will McCarthy ultimately find his way to Sean McVay’s team?

Between injuries and strong performances

After missing his entire 2024 rookie year due to meniscus surgery, J.J. McCarthy had a turbulent first season on the field in 2025. He appeared in 10 games, completing 57.6% of his passes for 1,632 yards, 11 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions.

His campaign was significantly hampered by health issues, including an ankle injury that sidelined him from Week 3 through Week 8, a concussion that forced him to miss Week 13, and a hand injury that kept him out of Week 17. Despite showing flashes of potential, McCarthy finished the season with a 72.6 passer rating as he adjusted to the physical demands of the NFL.

Search for Garoppolo or new talent?

The Los Angeles Rams are currently seeking for a back up for Matthew Stafford. While Jimmy Garoppolo is a free agent after his one-year deal expired, head coach Sean McVay recently confirmed the team is interested in bringing him back or potentially signing other QB to bolster the room.

By targeting established starters rather than a developmental prospect, the Rams are doubling down on their “win-now” window following Stafford’s standout 2025 MVP campaign.

Instead of entering with limited capital, the team has positioned itself with multiple selections across the first three rounds, including a mid–first-round pick that could become a cornerstone addition.

With four picks inside the top 100, the front office has a rare opportunity to address several needs without overcommitting to one single move. There’s also a broader sense of transition surrounding the franchise.

Which picks do the Vikings have in the 2026 NFL Draft?

The Minnesota Vikings have 9 total selections in the 2026 NFL Draft. That total places them right in the league’s average range, but the structure of those picks is what makes their situation particularly interesting.

They own four selections within the top 100 (No. 18, 49, 82 and 97 overall), giving them multiple opportunities to land immediate-impact players early. Their draft profile combines early-round quality with late-round volume:

• Round 1: No. 18
• Round 2: No. 49
• Round 3: No. 82
• Round 3: No. 97 (compensatory pick)
• Round 5: No. 163 (from Eagles)
• Round 6: No. 196 (from Colts)
• Round 7: No. 234
• Round 7: No. 235 (from Panthers)
• Round 7: No. 244 (from Texans)

One of the most notable aspects of this draft class is the lack of a fourth-round pick, which was moved in prior trades. However, they compensated by adding extra selections later in the draft, including multiple seventh-rounders acquired through deals with other teams.

The additional third-round pick (No. 97 overall) comes via the NFL’s compensatory formula, awarded after player departures in free agency. These picks often play a key role in roster construction, as teams can find starting-caliber talent without spending premium draft capital.

What are the Vikings’ biggest needs?

The Minnesota Vikings’ biggest needs heading into the 2026 NFL Draft include center, cornerback depth and overall roster depth on defense. The most pressing issue comes on the offensive line, specifically at center.

Beyond the interior line, the secondary remains a concern. Even after reshaping the cornerback room in recent offseason moves, the Minnesota Vikings still lack depth behind their starters.

ESPN analysis highlights that the team struggled to generate turnovers, finishing with just eight interceptions, while also lacking reliable backup options at corner. Defensively, there are broader depth issues across multiple positions.

They could target help at defensive line, safety and linebacker, especially in Brian Flores’ aggressive scheme that relies on versatility and depth. Altogether, this draft is less about one single hole and more about reinforcing several key areas.

Who could the Vikings target in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft?

The Vikings could target a cornerback, offensive lineman or defensive playmaker with their first-round pick. At No. 18 overall, they are projected to be in a range where multiple positional needs intersect with value.

Cornerback is one of the most commonly mocked positions. Prospects with strong ball skills and coverage ability—such as LSU’s Mansoor Delane—have been linked to them in projections, given their need for playmakers in the secondary.

The offensive line is another strong possibility. With center emerging as a top priority, they could look to secure a long-term solution in the middle of their line. While interior linemen are not always first-round picks, the importance of stabilizing the offense could push them in that direction if a top prospect is available.

There’s also the “best player available” scenario. According to insights from NFL and team-driven mock draft trackers, positions like wide receiver, defensive line and safety have consistently appeared in early projections for Minnesota.

“We wanted to be patient and allow Carson to see what opportunities might be out there, but at the same time, Carson knew very on early in offseason, regardless what other moves or move we made in that room, that we wanted him back,” O’Connell said at the NFL owners meetings. “He loved being in Minnesota. He loves our fan base. He loves getting to wear the purple and gold.“

A shoulder injury brought Wentz’s 2025 season with the Vikings to an end. Despite that, he managed to complete 110-of-169 passes (65.1%) for 1,216 yards, six touchdowns, and five interceptions across five starts.

The veteran will be one of four members of a crowded QB room for Minnesota this season. Can Carson Wentz earn the starting job, or will he serve as the experienced primary backup for Kevin O’Connell?

QBs must raise the level of the Vikings

The arrival of Kyler Murray and the previously mentioned return of Carson Wentz serve a clear purpose for Kevin O’Connell. The head coach believes this position must raise the bar for the rest of the team.

“We’ve played three guys in one year. We’ve played four in another. We just feel like having the ability to get quality quarterback play throughout the circumstances we do not control throughout the season gives our team pretty historic data that says if we get quarterback play to a certain line, we win a lot of football games,” he started.

“So we wanted to ensure we are able to do that, but also make it a very, very competitive room and that’s regardless of who’s taking reps with what group. We want the quarterback position to elevate our team, and with the talent we have around that position, we feel pretty good about it also working vice versa the other way around.”

The Minnesota Vikings QB room

With a mix of experience and young talent, the Minnesota Vikings have an intriguing quarterback group to head into the 2026 NFL season:

• Kyler Murray
• Carson Wentz
• J.J. McCarthy
• Max Brosmer

Confirmed rivals for Minnesota

Building strength in the NFC North

The Minnesota Vikings enter the 2026 season looking to capitalize on the momentum of their 5-0 finish to last year. Despite a rocky 4-8 start, the team rallied to a 9–8 overall record, finishing with a strong 4–2 record within the NFC North.

While the division remains a “bloodbath” with the Bears and Packers as heavy favorites, the addition of key players provide a significant boost to an offense that struggled with inconsistency in 2025. If Brian Flores’ defense can maintain its top-10 form, Minnesota has a legitimate shot at unseating Chicago for the divisional crown.

Hence, all eyes are on JJ McCarthy’s situation. In fact, after re-signing Wentz, many thought McCarthy’s future was sealed. Per Kevin Seifert of ESPN, the re-signing of Wentz “doesn’t move the needle on whether the team ultimately moves on from J.J. McCarthy. It’s about avoiding the depth emergencies.”

Hence, extrapolating the report, the pecking order will remain with McCarthy over Wentz, though it is speculated that Kyler Murray will be the one under center if all three signal-callers are healthy.

How did Wentz do last season?

Wentz had his chance after McCarthy suffered injuries last season. He ended up starting five games, where the team went 2-3. Still, he looked arguably better than McCarthy. Wentz season even played through a shoulder injury that ended up being a season-ending affair.

Wentz completed 65.1% of his passes for 1,216 yards, six touchdowns and five intereceptions. He had a way better completion percentage than McCarthy, and only 416 yards less despite playing five less games.

Murray should easily distance himself during the preseason

Murray also played just five games last season and had a 2-3 record. However, he had a 68.3 completion percentage, though for only 962 yards, six touchdowns to three picks. Still, he is by far the most talented of the three.

Murray was a first overall pick, and while his career hasn’t been what was expected, he has an educated arm, a well-polished skill set, and a dual-threat capability. Also, he is in his prime athletic years. McCarthy is too raw, and Wentz too old.

“Veteran QB Carson Wentz is re-signing with the Vikings, sources tell The Insiders. So Minnesota’s QB room now features three former top-10 picks: Kyler Murray, J.J. McCarthy and Wentz, who played well last season before a shoulder injury.”

Head coach Kevin O’Connell appears to have a roster that is just one QB away from being a Super Bowl contender. After letting go of names like Sam Darnold and Daniel Jones, he can’t afford to miss anymore.

Who will be Vikings starting QB in 2026?

Kyler Murray would be the starting quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings in 2026, although an open competition with J.J. McCarthy is currently expected. In this scenario, Carson Wentz would be an experienced option in case of emergency.

J.J. McCarthy’s future with Vikings

What’s interesting about Carson Wentz in Minnesota is that, as was the case with Murray, it would signal a lack of confidence in J.J. McCarthy. Insider Alec Lewis revealed that in 2025, the Vikings believed Wentz could take them to the playoffs before his injury.

“Carson Wentz, back in Minnesota. The Vikings have rounded out the QB room the way they wanted to. Wentz had a lot of fans internally — many believed they might’ve snuck in playoffs had he stayed healthy.”

Since last year, many rumors linked Rodgers to Minnesota because of his good relationship with head coach Kevin O’Connell. After Matthew Stafford decided to return to the Rams, the Vikings became a very attractive option for the QB with an offense led by Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison.

However, O’Connell decided to trust J.J. McCarthy, letting Sam Darnold go. In the end, that bet did not work out. Therefore, in 2026, the Vikings would look for a veteran to create competition. The door was open for Rodgers.

Vikings are no longer an option for Aaron Rodgers

The problem for Aaron Rodgers is that the Vikings have already decided that Kyler Murray is the player they want to boost the quarterback position. After being released by the Arizona Cardinals, many experts say he is on track to be the QB1 ahead of McCarthy.

What’s next for Aaron Rodgers?

This decision by the Minnesota Vikings has left Aaron Rodgers in a very clear scenario: Steelers or retirement. Mike McCarthy has said that he has already spoken several times with the quarterback, but the player also mentioned that there has been no real progress in the contract talks.

Across the league, there don’t seem to be any other options for Rodgers at the moment. There is no Super Bowl contender with a QB vacancy, like the Vikings had in 2025, so if Aaron truly wants one last chance, everything points to it being in Pittsburgh.

The no-tag clause means Murray cannot be franchise tagged by Minnesota. In other words, Murray is guaranteed to either become an unrestricted free agent in 2027 or be handed a lucrative contract by the Vikings. That is, of course, provided he puts on a strong production in the 2026 NFL campaign.

While much has been speculated about Murray and his playing style, it’s clear as day that him and his agent have done their due diligence. When it comes to his contract, Murray has knocked it out of the park. It’s only fitting as the former Heisman trophy winner and first overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft was also a top-10 pick in the 2018 MLB Draft.

Murray got himself a great contract

It’s hardly a secret in the NFL: quarterbacks are getting paid from left to right. Though gutted about his exit from the Cardinals, Murray knows better than to cry over spilled milk. Thus, as soon as he became an unrestricted free agent, he made sure to find the best possible contract. Moreover, signing with the Vikings puts him in a great spot to compete for a starting job.

With UFA Carson Wentz trending toward signing elsewhere and Max Brosmer looking like anything but a finished product in his eight career appearances, the Vikings’ depth chart has J.J. McCarthy and Murray competing for the QB1 role.

If Murray can come away with the job, the supporting cast—featuring Justin Jefferson, T. J. Hockenson, Jordan Addison, Aaron Jones, and Jordan Mason—can help him reconnect with his best football. Murray could take it from there.

Minnesota can’t afford another misstep

Thanks to the reported clause in his contract, Minnesota will face two options: pay a hefty price to re-sign him or let him walk as a UFA. If the Vikings know one thing, it is that they cannot be the stepping stone for another reborn quarterback.

Sam Darnold went on to win a Super Bowl just one year after they let him walk. As unlikely as it may seem now, Murray could repeat that story, and Minnesota cannot afford to be on the wrong end of history once again.

The depth chart now has McCarthy, but Murray comes in to fill the place of Carson Wentz, who departed the team. Third-tier Max Brosmer is still on the roster, but he will be relegated in the pecking order. John Wolford also departed the team.

For Murray, this is almost an ultimatum. If he can’t beat McCarthy for the starting job, his days as a QB1 in the NFL are all but done. After all, Arizona preferred to deal with Jacoby Brissett, than continue to trust Murray.

JJ McCarthy is also facing huge pressure

McCarthy was a first-round pick in 2024, but he suffered a season-ending knee injury before he could ever step foot in the gridiron. During his sophomore season, McCarthy didn’t impress, and also missed time with plenty of other injuries. He almost lost his job to Carson Wentz, but Wentz also got injured.

McCarthy came into the league with plenty of hype after guiding Michigan to a College Football National Championship. In 2025 where he played just 10 games, had a 6-4 record, completed a dysmal 57.6% of his passes for only 1632 yards and had 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. Hence, the Vikings opted to go for a more experienced guy under center. It’s a serious message for McCarthy, who was very underwhelming.

Kevin O’Connell has proven to be a wonderful HC to revive QBs

A change of scenery might be just what Kyler Murray needed. After all, he is going to play for Kevin O’Connell, an offensive mastermind who revived the career of Sam Darnold. Not only that, Murray will have a top-tier WR corp with the likes of Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison to make life easier for him. His only task is beating JJ McCarthy for the starting position.