Combine buzz casts doubt on McCarthy as Vikings' 2026 starter
At the NFL Scouting Combine, Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell signaled a shifted timeline for J.J. McCarthy, with reporters suggesting the 2026 Week 1 start may not be his. McCarthy would need drastic offseason improvements in decision-making, durability, and accuracy to win the job. The Vikings are also linked to a group of veteran options who could end up starters in 2026—Mac Jones, Aaron Rodgers, Derek Carr, Kirk Cousins, Kyler Murray, Geno Smith, and Malik Willis—with several facing release or free agency, meaning Minnesota could pivot if McCarthy isn’t ready.