Vikings keep J.J. McCarthy on roster despite contractual trade restrictions

The Minnesota Vikings retained quarterback J.J. McCarthy through the NFL roster cutdown deadline, partly due to a collective bargaining agreement restriction. According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, the team could not move McCarthy because the current CBA prohibits renegotiating a drafted player’s contract for three years. This rule prevented the Vikings from absorbing approximately $4.85 million in remaining guaranteed salary to facilitate a trade. McCarthy fell behind Kyler Murray on the depth chart during training camp, but the Vikings opted against moving the 23-year-old quarterback. The team cites his developmental potential and positive locker room presence as factors in the decision. Minnesota prepares to face the Green Bay Packers this Sunday at 4:25 p.m. ET as the team transitions to an offense led by Murray and receiver Justin Jefferson.

• 3:45 PMYahoo Sports — NFL rumors: A $4.85 million reason Vikings didn't trade J.J. McCarthy on cutdown day