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League: NFLSport: FootballCountry: United StatesCategory: Scores & Results

J.J. McCarthy loses Vikings' starting QB competition to Kyler Murray

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 12, 2026, 7:53 PM

Last updated Aug 12, 2026

J.J. McCarthy loses Vikings' starting QB competition to Kyler Murray
Summary

J.J. McCarthy has lost the Minnesota Vikings' quarterback battle for the upcoming season to Kyler Murray. Murray, a two-time Pro Bowler signed on a veteran minimum contract, will start in Week 1 after McCarthy missed his rookie season due to injury and faced challenges last season. ESPN's Adam Schefter defended McCarthy's situation, prompting criticism from analysts like JP Acosta, who labeled Schefter's comments as overly supportive of McCarthy. Former NFL quarterback Chris Simms reported doubt within the Vikings' locker room regarding McCarthy's ability to lead the team effectively. McCarthy will serve as Murray’s backup in 2026.

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Status Watch
  • •McCarthy was the No. 10 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft
  • •He struggled with injuries last season, missing seven games
  • •The Vikings finished with a 6-4 record under McCarthy's leadership last year
  • •Murray is expected to lead the Vikings in Week 1
  • •McCarthy's backup position raises questions about his future performance
Latest Updates
  • 7:53 PMYahoo Sports — ‘One of the Nastiest Spins’ — NFL Analyst Rips ESPN’s Adam Schefter’s Comments on J.J. McCarthy Losing Vikings’ QB1 Battle
What they're saying
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J. J. McCarthy lost the battle to be the Minnesota Vikings’ starting quarterback next season to Kyler Murray.

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