Vikings GM says rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy will be on Week 1 roster
General manager Nolan Teasley confirmed that first-round pick J.J. McCarthy is expected to be on the Minnesota Vikings’ roster for the opening game, while noting his ongoing development and future potential.
Minnesota Vikings general manager Nolan Teasley said Wednesday that quarterback J.J. McCarthy, the team’s 2024 first-round selection, is expected to be on the roster for the season opener against the Green Bay Packers. Teasley did not specify McCarthy’s position on the depth chart, but emphasized the young player’s role in continuing to develop and support his teammates.
"His role is to continue to develop, improve and support his teammates," Teasley said.
McCarthy, 23, enters his third NFL season after missing his rookie year with a torn meniscus and dealing with ankle, hand and concussion injuries last year. Those setbacks contributed to the Vikings signing veteran Kyler Murray in the spring and later naming Murray the starter during training camp. Veteran Carson Wentz and McCarthy have been competing for the backup role.
The quarterback appeared in the first two preseason games but left early in the second after sustaining a minor injury. Coach Kevin O’Connell described him as “banged up,” and McCarthy said he would follow the coach’s decision. He later indicated he did not expect the injury to keep him out for an extended period and returned to practice the following week. O’Connell gave McCarthy a day off before the final preseason game, classifying the injury as day-to-day.
Teasley noted that McCarthy participated fully in recent practices and expressed optimism about his future with the team.
"He’s really talented. He was picked in the first round for a reason – good arm strength. I’m looking forward to seeing how he continues to develop in this system," Teasley said.
The GM added that McCarthy’s career is still unfolding, noting the limited number of starts he has made to date.