The Minnesota Vikings were confident they selected a future starting NFL quarterback when they picked J.J. McCarthy with the No. 10 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. While not new information, this is the message Vikings GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah shared with reporters on Wednesday.
McCarthy is currently at the top of the team’s depth chart, though there’s some uncertainty about whether he’ll be the undisputed starter heading into the 2025 season. Adofo-Mensah expressed confidence in McCarthy but emphasized that the team aims to maintain a competitive quarterback room
Adofo-Mensah highlighted the importance of having a quarterback room where players can exchange ideas and help prepare one another for game situations. He also emphasized the need for a capable backup who can step in and perform well if the starter gets injured.
The Vikings saw the benefits of that approach last year when Sam Darnold had a career-best season after McCarthy, who was vying for the starting role, suffered a knee injury.
Is Aaron Rodgers still a target for the Vikings?
Aaron Rodgers, a free-agent quarterback, could potentially challenge McCarthy. The Vikings have previously been linked to the former All-Pro, but those rumors have quieted in March.
When asked about Rodgers’ status with the team on Wednesday, Adofo-Mensah initially seemed open to the idea, but ultimately stated that the Vikings are content with their current quarterback room.
When directly asked if Rodgers was still a target, Adofo-Mensah responded, “We’re happy with our room,” implying that the team has moved on from pursuing him.
Rodgers, 41, remains a free agent after posting 28 touchdowns and 11 interceptions with the New York Jets last season. With the Vikings seemingly out of the running, the Pittsburgh Steelers have emerged as the most likely destination for the former Hall of Fame quarterback.
Although Minnesota has yet to officially name McCarthy the starter, it’s clear they are optimistic about him being the solution. Adofo-Mensah hinted at this on Wednesday, which isn’t surprising given the significant investment the team has already made in the former Michigan star.
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