J.J. McCarthy faces decision after being benched for Kyler Murray
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 16, 2026, 3:16 PM
Last updated Aug 16, 2026

J.J. McCarthy was informed that he will serve as the backup quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings, with Kyler Murray starting for the upcoming season. NFL insider Dan Graziano indicated that McCarthy's next move will largely depend on his response to being benched. The Vikings are pleased with how both quarterbacks have handled the competition, but McCarthy is on a rookie deal and has limited leverage within the organization. His performance and attitude may influence his future with the team.
- •Kyler Murray will start for the Minnesota Vikings this season.
- •McCarthy must decide whether to accept his backup role or seek a change.
- •Vikings are satisfied with the performance of both quarterbacks.
- •McCarthy's rookie contract limits his options moving forward.
- •Expectations on how McCarthy handles adversity are high.
- 3:16 PMYahoo Sports — Insider discusses what's next for J.J. McCarthy after benching
"What's next for J.J. McCarthy after losing starting quarterback job?
Sources
External linksOriginal reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days
FootballNFL•Aug 16, 2026, 4:49 PMCardinals adjust again after losing a rookie OL with knee injury
NFL•Aug 16, 2026, 4:42 PMCowboys At Seahawks: Update on Dak Prescott Backup Competition
NFL•Aug 16, 2026, 4:40 PMCeeDee Lamb believes that, in 2026, he can George Pickens can be "the best ever"
NFL•Aug 16, 2026, 4:31 PMTucker Kraft takes huge step in injury recovery at Packers practice
NFL•Aug 16, 2026, 4:31 PMRams PFF Grades: Stetson Bennett finished last on offense
NFL•Aug 16, 2026, 4:30 PMEverything Texans OT Aireontae Ersery said after Day 12 on training camp