JJ McCarthy's Future in Jeopardy as Kyler Murray Signs with Vikings
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Minnesota on Thursday announced that they have agreed to a one-year deal with Kyler Murray, only a day after the 28-year-old was released by the Arizona Cardinals, where he played his first seven seasons.
Murray confirmed the signing with a social media post captioned ‘SKOL’. Arizona now owes the QB $36.8 million for the 2026 season. He will reportedly receive $1.3 million from Minnesota, which is the league minimum for seven-plus year veterans.
ESPN reported that the deal includes a no-tag clause.
JJ McCarthy might have to take the back seat at the Vikings, at least for a while. McCarthy is already fighting for the QB1 gig this upcoming season. The 10th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft has battled injuries last season in his first action after missing the entire 2024 season with a torn meniscus.
McCarthy made 10 starts in 2025, completing 57.6% of his passes for 1,632 yards, 11 touchdown passes and 12 interceptions. He also ran for 181 yards and four touchdowns.
Since 2000, no first-round quarterback drafted in the top 10 has reclaimed their starting role with the same team after being replaced in the offseason.
Analyst Louis Riddick was blunt: “If they sign him, it’s over for J.J.” and “The McCarthy era in Minnesota is over.”
