J.J. McCarthy’s future thrown into question as NFL insider stirs speculation about Vikings QB

NFL insider Dianna Russini sparked uncertainty on Wednesday surrounding J.J. McCarthy’s long-term standing with the Minnesota Vikings. She raised the possibility that the quarterback might not be part of the organization’s plans beyond this season.

Russini's comments came as McCarthy struggles through a rocky debut year as a starter. He entered Week 12 with the league’s lowest passer rating among qualified quarterbacks at 61.7.

Russini asked whether Minnesota will remain committed to him moving forward.

"I think the question that we got to start asking," Russini said, via the "Hoge & Jahns" podcast. "And this is going to get a headline. Is J.J. McCarthy going to be a Minnesota Viking quarterback next season."

Her question stunned the hosts.

“Damn it! I didn’t want that reaction," Russini said. "I was hoping you were just going to say, ‘We were asking the same thing!'”

The Vikings (4-6) opened the year hoping McCarthy would stabilize the position after last season’s success with Sam Darnold. However, they are at the bottom of the NFC North after entering 2025 with postseason expectations.

J.J. McCarthy insists progress is coming as pressure intensifies

NFL: Chicago Bears at Minnesota Vikings - Source: Imagn

J.J. McCarthy maintains that he is close to turning a corner. He described his development as building toward a breakthrough.

"I kind of make the analogy of just a cork about to come off a bottle," McCarthy told reporters on Wednesday.

"Just understanding that it's one to three little things that I need to change about my game that is going to make a huge difference in the outcome of every single drive in the game. So yeah, I feel like it's really close, but it all comes down to the consistency of the fundamentals."

McCarthy has thrown six touchdowns with eight interceptions, while missing time due to a high ankle sprain. He spent his entire rookie season on injured reserve because of a torn meniscus.

Minnesota coach Kevin O’Connell said the focus is on improving mechanical consistency, particularly within the pocket. He also stressed that repetition and discipline will eventually translate into results.

McCarthy acknowledged that injuries have disrupted his ability to build routine practice habits. However, he continues to find creative ways to increase reps outside the facility.

The Vikings are preparing for Sunday’s matchup against Green Bay (6-3) with playoff hopes slipping in the competitive NFC North.