Minnesota Vikings Teammate Speaks Out About Rookie QB J.J. McCarthy

J.J. McCarthy became the Minnesota Vikings’ highest-drafted quarterback in history when they selected him with the 10th overall selection in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft in April.

After veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins left in free agency to join the Atlanta Falcons, the Vikings needed to make sure they could choose their franchise quarterback. They did that by moving up one place from their original eleventh overall slot.

The Vikings will be fascinating to watch during the spring practices as they develop McCarthy into their starting quarterback. Every action he takes will be closely monitored by the team’s supporters and the media.

Although there had been skepticism among the media regarding McCarthy’s potential in the NFL, new information appears to suggest that he is headed in the correct direction.

Jordan Addison, a second-year wide receiver, was questioned about the former Michigan Wolverines quarterback after the Vikings’ voluntary Organized Team Activity practice on Wednesday. He responded positively.

Being one of Minnesota’s best receivers these days, Addison informed reporters that McCarthy has a promising future.

Addison laughed and said, “He’s got a nice, tight spiral, so you’ve got to make sure you catch it.”

“But I like him. J.J. has been playing really well and playing with confidence. He’s making mistakes, but he’s learning from them. He’s got a bright future,” Addison concluded.

Addison additionally stated that his goal is to simplify things for his coaches and quarterbacks.

Jordan Addison is hoping to improve even more in 2024 for the Minnesota Vikings after having an outstanding debut season in 2023 with 70 receptions for 911 yards and 10 touchdowns.

J.J. McCarthy Will Have A Strong Receiver Group To Throw To In 2024

McCarthy will have the opportunity to pass to a number of potent receivers in 2024, such as Jordan Addison, T.J. Hockenson (when he’s back to full health), and Justin Jefferson.

Unquestionably one of the league’s top wide receivers, Jefferson needs to be the target of many passes from his quarterback. Getting him the football is always going to be McCarthy’s best course of action.

The Minnesota Vikings finished sixth in terms of receiving touchdowns in 2023 despite the difficulties at quarterback due in great part to the skill of the team’s receiving group.

McCarthy will get an opportunity to flourish early in his career, playing on an offense full of elite talent and guided by head coach Kevin O’Connell.

J.J. McCarthy completed his college career with the Michigan Wolverines, throwing for 2991 yards and 22 touchdowns with a passer rating of 167.4 in his final year. Although his stats weren’t spectacular, his proficiency was helpful in an offense that relied a lot on runs.