Vikings name Kyler Murray starting quarterback, J.J. McCarthy to backup role

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Aug 12, 2026, 4:05 PM

Last updated Aug 12, 2026

Vikings name Kyler Murray starting quarterback, J.J. McCarthy to backup role
Summary

The Minnesota Vikings have officially named Kyler Murray their starting quarterback for Week 1, concluding a competitive training camp that included J.J. McCarthy. Analyst Kyle Brandt stated that McCarthy never had a realistic chance against Murray, especially after the Vikings signed the veteran. He emphasized that Murray's talent and experience created a significant gap that McCarthy could not bridge. Moving forward, McCarthy must prove himself as a valuable asset behind Murray, with increased pressure to justify the franchise's earlier support of him as their quarterback of the future.

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By the Numbers
  • Kyler Murray named starter for Vikings, J.J. McCarthy to serve as backup.
  • Kyle Brandt claims McCarthy had no chance to compete against Murray.
  • McCarthy's previous season included 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.
  • Murray offers a diverse skill set that can enhance the Vikings' offense.
  • McCarthy now faces pressure to secure future opportunities with Minnesota.
Latest Updates
  • 4:05 PMYahoo SportsVikings’ J.J. McCarthy had no chance against Kyler Murray, Kyle Brandt claims
What they're saying
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Kyle Brandt says the Vikings' quarterback battle was never really a competition.

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