Vikings name Kyler Murray starter, future uncertain for J.J. McCarthy
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 13, 2026, 2:18 AM
Last updated Aug 13, 2026

The Minnesota Vikings have named Kyler Murray the starting quarterback ahead of their preseason game against the New York Giants. This decision follows Murray's one-year signing with the Vikings after seven seasons with the Arizona Cardinals. J.J. McCarthy, who had been the starter last season, now finds himself on the bench as injuries have hampered his performance. Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell expressed optimism for McCarthy’s development, emphasizing the potential for future contributions. However, McCarthy's immediate playing time hinges on Murray's performance or potential injuries.
- •Kyler Murray named Vikings starting quarterback for preseason.
- •J.J. McCarthy benched after injuries affected his play.
- •O'Connell shows optimism for McCarthy's future contributions.
- •McCarthy's playing time depends on Murray's performance.
- •Vikings looking to capitalize on Justin Jefferson's prime years.
- 2:53 PMYahoo Sports — Vikings HC comments on J.J. McCarthy's future with the team
- 2:18 AMYahoo Sports — ‘Kevin O’Connell Is Just Done With Him’ — NFL World Reacts to Latest Concerning Reports on J.J. McCarthy
- 7:29 PMYahoo Sports — Kevin O’Connell explains J.J. McCarthy’s future with the Vikings
"J. J. McCarthy’s time with the Minnesota Vikings is at a crossroads, and there’s a fair bit of speculation that the quarterback might not even finish the season with the team.
"Kevin O'Connell made a brief comment on J.J. McCarthy's future with Minnesota.
"Could the Vikings still lean on J.J. McCarthy in the future?
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsAug 14, 2026, 2:53 PMVikings HC comments on J.J. McCarthy's future with the team
Kevin O'Connell made a brief comment on J.J. McCarthy's future with Minnesota.
- Yahoo SportsAug 13, 2026, 2:18 AM‘Kevin O’Connell Is Just Done With Him’ — NFL World Reacts to Latest Concerning Reports on J.J. McCarthy
J. J. McCarthy’s time with the Minnesota Vikings is at a crossroads, and there’s a fair bit of speculation that the quarterback might not even finish the season with the team.
- Yahoo SportsAug 11, 2026, 7:29 PMKevin O’Connell explains J.J. McCarthy’s future with the Vikings
Could the Vikings still lean on J.J. McCarthy in the future?
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