In the span of two years, the Minnesota Vikings have once again found themselves with a new starting quarterback. J.J. McCarthy, the former number 10 overall draft pick, will be stepping in for Sam Darnold in 2025, and expectations are set high right from the start. He is supported by a strong lineup, boasting talents like wide receivers Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison, not to mention an upgraded defense bolstered through smart free agency moves.

The Vikings turned heads last season with a remarkable record of 14-3. Can McCarthy kick off his first full season with vigor?

“I know I’m ready to start. All the effort I’ve invested, along with my confidence in my skills and abilities, allows me to simplify my tasks. I’ll take it one day, one play at a time,” McCarthy stated, via Fox9 in Minnesota. “I have a fantastic coaching staff and a great group of teammates I can rely on, just as they can rely on me.”

McCarthy impressed during his lone preseason appearance last year, completing 64.7% of his passes for 188 yards with two touchdowns and one interception. However, his rookie season was curtailed due to a torn meniscus in his right knee, which kept him off the field. Now, eight months later, he reports feeling completely restored and excited to return.

“Overall, I feel 110%. Better than I did eight months ago when I got injured,” McCarthy told reporters.