Vikings backup quarterback J.J. McCarthy says he remains confident about future playing time
J.J. McCarthy, who will serve as a backup to Kyler Murray for the Minnesota Vikings, expressed confidence that he can still start in the NFL and emphasized his focus on preparation and team contribution.
Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy confirmed he will begin the 2026 season as a backup to newly signed starter Kyler Murray. In his first press session since the coaching staff announced the decision, McCarthy said he believes he can still be a starter in the league and stressed the importance of staying ready.
"Yes, I believe so. And I’m always gonna have that confidence in myself, no matter what. But at this time it’s doing whatever I can for the team, and, you know, being ready when my number’s called. And that’s all that matters, that’s all I can control," he told reporters.
McCarthy acknowledged that the roster decision was beyond his control and expressed disappointment, but said he is moving forward with the next practice and upcoming preseason game against the New York Giants.
"I’m obviously disappointed, but at the end of the day, you know, it’s in the past, and I’m moving on to the next practice, the next rep, the same mindset I had going into it, and focusing on the Giants this week," he added.
He praised his development over the offseason and reiterated his commitment to the organization, the state and the fan base.
"I love this place, I love every single person in this building, I love the state and the fan base, and I’m going to continue to do whatever I can for this team," McCarthy said.
When asked whether he felt he had a fair chance to win the starting job, McCarthy said his focus was on the opportunity itself rather than the process.
"I wasn’t thinking about that at all. I was just thinking about the next opportunity to capitalize on, and continue to develop and grow," he explained.
McCarthy will get a chance to play in the preseason matchup against the Giants, which he described as an "extremely exciting" opportunity to showcase the team's work.
"It’s always a blessing to be able to go out and go to battle with your teammates, with your brothers, against somebody else. I’m really excited to see what this group looks like," he said.
The Vikings have not indicated any plans to alter the quarterback depth chart before the regular season, leaving McCarthy to await further opportunities, either with Minnesota or elsewhere.