Following the conclusion of the NFL preseason, high-profile roster projections indicate that the Minnesota Vikings may make a major adjustment to their quarterback room. In a 53-man roster projection published by The Athletic, beat writer Alec Lewis predicted that quarterback J.J. McCarthy will not make the final cut, leaving newly named starter Kyler Murray and veteran Carson Wentz as the team’s only active signal-callers.
Roster Projection Limits Minnesota to Two Quarterbacks
The projection follows a turbulent preseason for McCarthy, who lost the starting job during training camp to Murray. The situation grew more complicated during the second preseason contest when McCarthy sustained an ankle injury. Although the 23-year-old returned to practice on Monday and Tuesday, head coach Kevin O’Connell rested him on Wednesday with the intention of having him play in Friday night’s preseason finale against the Denver Broncos.
However, McCarthy did not play in the finale. Instead, Carson Wentz started under center, reinforcing his position as the primary backup. According to Lewis, the Vikings are increasingly likely to keep only two quarterbacks on their active 53-man roster, leaving McCarthy’s future in Minnesota in serious doubt.
Injury History and Preseason Struggles
McCarthy’s tenure in Minnesota has been hindered by health issues and limited game action since he was selected 10th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft out of Michigan. He missed his entire rookie season in 2024 after suffering a torn ACL. Returning to action in 2025, he started 10 games, posting a 6-4 record while throwing for 1,632 yards, 11 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions with a 57.6% completion rate, alongside 181 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns.
Addressing the training camp decision that elevated Murray to QB1, McCarthy noted that the coaching staff’s choice was beyond his control. “A decision was made that was out of my control,” McCarthy stated. “Obviously, everyone wants to play. Moving forward, it’s about continuing to work hard and stay ready for when my number is called.”
Veteran Presence: Murray and Wentz
The Vikings’ projected decision to lean on veteran stability centers on Murray and Wentz. Murray joined Minnesota on a single-year prove-it contract following his release from the Arizona Cardinals earlier in the league year. Over seven seasons in Arizona, Murray threw for 20,460 yards and 121 touchdowns, ranking third in franchise history in both categories.
Wentz provides additional starting experience, having stepped in for Minnesota during the 2025 season. Wentz posted a 2-3 record across five starts before a season-ending injury interrupted his campaign. His appearance in Friday’s preseason finale solidified his standing ahead of McCarthy on the depth chart.
Next Steps for McCarthy and the Franchise
With final roster cutdowns approaching across the NFL, Minnesota management faces a critical strategic decision regarding a former top-10 draft pick. If the team opts not to keep McCarthy on the active 53-man roster, he could be made available via trade, placed on waivers, or potentially re-signed to the practice squad if he clears waivers unclaimed.