J.J. McCarthy’s days with the Minnesota Vikings might be numbered, and it’s looking like the team is already scouting his replacement. With one preseason game and only a few practices left before the final roster cuts, it’s clear where things stand for a few guys, and the vibe around the quarterback room is definitely one of change.
Quarterback Drama: McCarthy’s Struggles and a Potential New Face
This season, the Vikings are planning on keeping three quarterbacks for emergency game-day purposes. Kyler Murray is locked in as QB1, no surprise there. But the real story is what’s happening behind him. Carson Wentz has shown way more consistency and an ability to actually run the offense effectively in preseason action compared to McCarthy. Head coach Kevin O’Connell definitely trusts Wentz more, and honestly, who wouldn’t after seeing the preseason? This isn’t good news for McCarthy. He hasn’t shown any improvement in training camp or preseason, and it feels like the team’s patience with his development is at an end. I wouldn’t be shocked if the Vikings are actively listening to trade offers for him right now. What’s even wilder is the rumor that Anthony Richardson, who the Colts might cut or trade, could be brought in to replace McCarthy. That’s a huge swing, hoping a change of scenery could spark something, but it just shows how ready the Vikings are to move on. Max Brosmer looks like a practice squad lock.
Running Back Shake-Up and Wide Receiver Locks
The running back room is also seeing some significant shifts. Aaron Jones is RB1, but Jordan Mason is listed as RB1a, and I’d put money on him seeing more snaps than Jones at some point this season. He might even take over the RB1 spot outright. Demond Claiborne is positioned to be Jones’ replacement next year, and he’s already getting hundreds of snaps. He’s also shown he can be a decent pass protector, which is huge for earning playing time. Max Bredeson is a total lock at fullback and looks like a real upgrade. Zavier Scott is a good practice squad candidate, ready to step up if injuries hit.
Over at wide receiver, those spots feel pretty set in stone. Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, and Jauan Jennings are obviously in. Tai Felton and Myles Price have both really stepped up in camp and preseason, securing their spots as well. It looks like Dillon Bell, Jeshaun Jones, and Dontae Fleming will be battling it out for practice squad spots. These guys have put in the work, and the team seems happy with the core five.
With just one more preseason game and a few practices to go, the final roster cuts are looming large. Every snap, every rep, it all counts for these guys still on the bubble. It’s going to be wild to see who makes the cut and how this QB situation ultimately shakes out.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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