Kyler Murray holds clear edge over J.J. McCarthy in Vikings QB competition

The Minnesota Vikings' quarterback battle shows a significant divergence in perceived ability between Kyler Murray and J.J. McCarthy. In The Athletic’s 2026 NFL Quarterback Tiers, Murray ranks No. 21 in Tier 3, while McCarthy sits at No. 34 in Tier 4. Murray, who played only five games in 2025 due to injury, enters training camp aiming to reclaim his starting role after signing a one-year deal. McCarthy, a former first-round pick starting his second season, faces scrutiny over his mechanics and performance following a lackluster debut year. The competition remains open as both quarterbacks share first-team practice time under head coach Kevin O’Connell.

• 1:18 PMYahoo Sports — NFL QB tiers reveal enormous gap in Vikings quarterback competition