Vikings coach outlines quarterback competition plan ahead of training camp
Head coach Kevin O'Connell said the Vikings will rotate Kyler Murray and J.J. McCarthy in early camp drills and aim to decide the starter before the preseason begins.
Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell announced that the team's two quarterbacks, Kyler Murray and J.J. McCarthy, will share reps on the first- and second-team units during the initial phase of training camp in Eagan, Minnesota. He said the split will not necessarily be equal each day, but the coaching staff will strive to keep the overall repetitions balanced.
"I know we'll be thorough," O'Connell said. "I know both guys will feel like they've got an opportunity to compete."
O'Connell indicated that a tentative timeline exists for choosing a starter, adding that the decision will be made when the staff feels it is best for the offense's preparation.
"There's absolutely a date in mind and subject to what we think is best. If we feel like we can make the decision before that date, we will. If we feel like we need a little bit more time, we'll take it."
New general manager Nolan Teasley said his role will provide a different perspective but emphasized that the coaching staff will retain the freedom to make the final quarterback selection.
"Ultimately you want to give your coaching staff that freedom to make that choice," Teasley said.