Kevin SeifertApr 29, 2025, 03:49 PM ET
CloseKevin Seifert is a staff writer who covers the Minnesota Vikings and the NFL at ESPN. Kevin has covered the NFL for over 20 years, joining ESPN in 2008. He was previously a beat reporter for the Minneapolis Star Tribune and Washington Times. He is a graduate of the University of Virginia.Open Extended Reactions
EAGAN, Minn. — The Vikings have bid farewell to three quarterbacks who spent time on their roster last season, including one — veteran Sam Darnold — who threw for 4,319 yards and 35 touchdowns. They passed on an opportunity to sign future Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers, who had expressed interest in playing for them in 2025.
Why? They are ready to turn over the position to J.J. McCarthy, the No. 10 pick of the 2024 draft, who has recovered from a torn meniscus in his right knee. McCarthy, speaking Tuesday to local reporters for the first time since last fall, appears as confident in himself as the team is in him.
“I know I’m ready to start,” McCarthy said, “because of all the work I’ve put in and just the confidence in my skills