Jason Burgos
A new rumor suggests the Minnesota Vikings may be close to signing JJ McCarthy’s competition for the 2026 NFL season.
After former first-round pick McCarthy disappointed in his second season in Minnesota, reports quickly emerged after the season came to a close that the organization intends to bring in a veteran QB to serve as potential competition for the 23-year-old in training camp this summer. Well, that player could be signed soon.
In a new report from SNY’s Connor Hughes, the NFL insider claimed that the New York Jets have interest in soon to be released two-time Pro Bowler Kyler Murray. Yet, despite being a top target for the QB-needy team, Hughes revealed, “The resounding belief from multiple sources, though, is that he will sign with the Vikings.”
Kyler Murray stats (2025): 2-3 record, 962 passing yards, 6 touchdowns, 3 interceptions, 88.6 rating
The Arizona Cardinals informed Murray this week that they will cut him when the new league year officially begins next week.
When the Cardinals used the 1st overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft on Murray, there was hope he could be the franchise quarterback they’ve lacked for decades. After his first three seasons, it seemed like they hit on the pick as he earned Pro Bowl honors in 2020 and 2021. But in the four seasons since, Murray regressed. Partly because of injuries. However, even when he was on the field, he was ineffective.
Nevertheless, Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell has developed a reputation as a QB guru, and it makes sense for Murray to want to go to Minnesota in the hopes of returning to his Pro Bowl form. If the 28-year-old can get back to being the player he was in 2020 and 2021, the Vikings will be a serious Super Bowl contender next season.
