After roughly two weeks of holding a starting quarterback competition, the Minnesota Vikings had seen enough from Kyler Murray to declare him the winner. But what does being relegated to QB2 duties mean for J.J. McCarthy?
Aside from sliding down the depth chart from starter to backup, nothing really changes for McCarthy. Instead of knowing he’ll start a game, he’s now just one snap away, which means he still needs to prepare for each game as if he were QB1. Yet, some have suggested that the 10th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft will demand a trade to a team that may hold a firmer belief in his ability to become their starting quarterback.
PFT’s Mike Florio Says J.J. McCarthy ‘Likely Wants a Trade’
J.J. McCarthy
Jan 4, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) warms up prior to the game against the Green Bay Packers at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images
The Vikings have built a deep quarterback room, led by Murray and McCarthy. But they also have a capable veteran in Carson Wentz and another young QB whom they remain high on in Max Brosmer. Four QBs is more than they need on a depth chart, and Murray and Wentz likely aren’t going anywhere. So, now that McCarthy has lost the starting gig, should the Vikings think about trading him?
They might not have to. According to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, McCarthy “likely wants a trade” now that he’s been pushed down the depth chart. Of course, that doesn’t mean the Vikings have to comply.
“Although card-carrying Michigan man Adam Schefter is being justifiably dragged for carrying McCarthy’s water, Schefter’s pro-McCarthy take carries a distinct message: McCarthy, whether he admits it or not, likely wants out.”
PFT’s Mike Florio on J.J. McCarthy
Anthony Richardson requested a trade from the Indianapolis Colts early in the offseason, and he’s still on the roster, likely hoping to land in a new destination. Yet, as coach Kevin O’Connell noted, the Vikings still believe in McCarthy, and they may not want to trade him. Barring a surprising offer that’s too good to refuse, the Vikings may be perfectly content holding onto their 23-year-old, knowing he could still develop into something of value.