League: NFL Sport: Football Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Vikings name Kyler Murray starting quarterback for 2026 season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 12, 2026, 12:21 AM

Last updated Aug 12, 2026

Vikings name Kyler Murray starting quarterback for 2026 season

Summary

Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell confirmed Kyler Murray as the starting quarterback for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season, with J.J. McCarthy serving as the backup. Despite some public messaging about a quarterback competition, it appears Murray slightly outperformed McCarthy during training camp. The team signed Murray to a one-year deal, indicating a pivotal audition period for his future. O'Connell acknowledged McCarthy's potential role within the franchise moving forward but noted that more substantial performance was needed for him to claim the starting position.

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By the Numbers

•Kyler Murray named starting quarterback for the Vikings.
•J.J. McCarthy will serve as the backup quarterback.
•Competition between quarterbacks was deemed close but ultimately favoring Murray.
•Murray signed a one-year, prove-it deal with the team.
•McCarthy has potential but needs to perform better to earn a starting role.

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