On the surface, there's a clear contrast between Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy and reigning MVP Josh Allen.
At 6-foot-5, 237 pounds, Allen's frame has made him one of the toughest players to tackle at the position and a runaway freight train in the open field. He's averaged 591.8 rushing yards per game in his career, exploiting his size and speed to find success in the NFL.
McCarthy, standing 6-foot-3 and roughly 215 pounds, is of a smaller ilk at quarterback who will look to thrive playing primarily inside the pocket and behind the line of scrimmage.
However, physical traits don't always translate to the NFL level.
Defensive tackle Harrison Phillips, who spent four seasons with the Allen and the Buffalo Bills, said he sees some more important similarities between McCarthy and Allen.
Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9).
Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9).
© Brad Rempel-Imagn Images
After practice on Monday, June 2, Phillips likened McCarthy to Allen, who seized the leadership required of the position at a young age in Buffalo.
“He’s got some confidence, and he reminds me of like Josh Allen when I was with him in Buffalo coming into his own and understanding the power that he has to lead this organization, and he’s doing a fantastic job,” Phillips told Minnesota Star Tribune reporter Emily Leiker.
McCarthy's maturity and leadership have seemingly been his greatest strengths early in his career, especially after he was dealt devastating news that he would miss his rookie season due to a torn meniscus.
The 22-year-old quarterback did not treat it like a year lost. He was diligent in studying film, chasing down teammates and coaches around the Vikings' team facilities to get clarity, and has rehabbed his body back into shape.
At Vikings organized team activities (OTAs), several beat reporters consider McCarthy to have picked up right where he left off before his injury last August.
No longer playing catch-up, McCarthy appears even better equipped to be the team's starter after being selected 10th overall in the 2024 draft.
"Everyone wants to be perfect, especially at the quarterback position, but the more you try to be perfect, it's going to kill you more than your imperfections will. And I feel like just being able to accept, in these learning and teaching phases, that it's OK to fail and try things and go out there and take risks," McCarthy said last week. "As long as you do that, whatever's down the road is going to come when it comes."