The Minnesota Vikings made the playoffs last season with Sam Darnold behind center as Kevin O'Connell's team exceeded expectations, nearly stealing the division title from the Detroit Lions.
The Vikings' 2024 success led up to an offseason of change in the Twin Cities as the Vikings let Darnold go to the Seattle Seahawks, putting their trust in JJ McCarthy to carry the torch going forward.
On Tuesday, the Vikings shared a hype video with updated highlights of McCarthy in action, causing Minnesota fans to react with excitement as summer and fall camp draw closer and the NFC North Division begins to take shape.
McCarthy 2022 photo.
Former Michigan QB JJ McCarthy throws a pass during the 2022 Fiesta Bowl.
© Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK
"Let it fly," the Minnesota Vikings' X account said with McCarthy's number nine included in emoji form.
They included highlights of McCarthy throwing pinpoint passes to stationary targets and teammates while showing off his vocal leadership skills in Vikings OTAs (Organized Team Activities).
In one clip McCarthy is shown completing a pass to Vikings superstar Justin Jefferson before slapping hands with him, building the type of rapport Minnesota will need this season in a stacked North Division.
"We're so back," one fan posted.
Another posted a .GIF of an Adam Sandler dodgeball scene in Billy Madison.
"Aura here is sensational," another said.
"Can't wait," another fan added.
"He broke Ohio fans," another added.
"McCarthy season," another posted with a clip of Hayden Christensen as a young Darth Vader (Anakin Skywalker) from the Star Wars movies, whom McCarthy has been compared to appearance-wise.
McCarthy suffered a torn meniscus in his right knee last season after a promising preseason outing.
He is the likely starter at quarterback despite not playing in a regular season game so far during his career, after compiling a 27-1 record as a starter at the University of Michigan.