NFL Insider believes there will definitely be trade inquiries for J.J. McCarthy this offseason

Vikings face QB dilemma: McCarthy trade or Darnold commitment?

The Minnesota Vikings find themselves at a crossroads regarding their quarterback situation. Sam Darnold’s strong season has solidified him as a key player, but the future of first-round pick J.J. McCarthy remains uncertain. ESPN’s Adam Schefter noted that teams are expected to “definitely” inquire about McCarthy’s availability this offseason.

Vikings face decisions with Darnold and McCarthy

Sam Darnold has delivered an impressive 2024 season, throwing for 4,153 yards, 35 touchdowns, and maintaining a 68.1% completion rate over 16 starts. At just 27 years old, Darnold appears to be entering his prime, and the Vikings are reportedly keen on bringing him back. According to The Athletic’s Dianna Russini, Minnesota plans to retain Darnold for 2025, likely through the franchise tag, which is projected to cost $41.3 million.

“JJ McCarthy would’ve been a top if not THE top QB in this draft.”@AdamSchefter says teams will be calling the @Vikings to inquire about their rookie QB this offseason 👀 pic.twitter.com/ccgautztGb
— ESPN Radio (@ESPNRadio) January 1, 2025

The franchise tag provides a short-term solution but complicates McCarthy’s development. Drafted as a raw prospect out of Michigan, McCarthy’s limited starting experience and offensive system at Michigan make him a developmental player. Keeping him on the bench for another year risks wasting valuable time on his rookie contract.

McCarthy’s trade value is high

The demand for quarterbacks in 2025 is expected to outpace supply. Schefter highlighted the shallow draft class, with only two quarterbacks projected to have first-round grades. McCarthy’s pedigree as a top prospect in the 2024 draft makes him a coveted target for QB-needy teams. He was widely praised for his leadership qualities and potential to transform a franchise.

Drew Stanton, a former NFL quarterback, rated McCarthy as the best QB in his draft class. “He has an unbelievable skill set,” Stanton said. “The most important thing about playing the quarterback position is leadership, and J.J. McCarthy has that in spades.”

Potential landing spots for McCarthy

Teams picking in the top 10, including the Las Vegas Raiders, could aggressively pursue McCarthy. With Tom Brady as a minority owner, the Raiders might see McCarthy as their franchise quarterback. The organization has substantial draft capital and salary cap space heading into 2025, making a trade feasible.

The #Vikings "will likely" receive trade inquiries for rookie QB JJ McCarthy this offseason, per @AdamSchefter

He also speculates that JJ McCarthy would’ve been a top, if not THE TOP, quarterback in this year's draft.

They would likely receive a first-round pick and then some… pic.twitter.com/1lgNgQYNU8
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) January 1, 2025

Brady’s connection to Michigan, where McCarthy played college football, could also influence the Raiders’ interest. McCarthy’s raw talent and leadership qualities align with what the Raiders need, especially as other options, like Shedeur Sanders, seem increasingly unlikely.

Why a McCarthy trade makes sense for the Vikings

Trading McCarthy would allow the Vikings to recoup assets. Minnesota currently has only three picks in the 2025 draft, with no selections between rounds two and four. Moving McCarthy could help replenish their draft capital while maintaining Darnold as their starter.

However, this path isn’t without risks. If Darnold struggles or fails to secure a long-term deal, the Vikings could find themselves without a clear solution at quarterback.

Image: McCarthy’s Instagram

J.J. McCarthy

Natasha Bose

I write about sports because, well, it brings in the big bucks! I’m not some lifelong analyst or stats guru, truth being told, you’ve probably never heard of me!—I just know how to research, write, and make things sound good. That’s the job!
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