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Vikings Add Kyler Murray, Ignite QB Competition

5/28/2026

Summary

Murray Joins Vikings

The Vikings signed quarterback Kyler Murray to a $1.3 million deal after the Cardinals released him.
Head coach Kevin O'Connell declined to name a starter when Murray arrived, leading quarterback J.J. McCarthy to say the competition feels like guys in a classroom and deny awkwardness.
In Wednesday’s Eagan practice Murray matched McCarthy’s snaps, hit receiver Jordan Addison and Dillon Bell, and posted a 69.8 QBR, ranking seventh over his four starts.

Summary

McCarthy Under Scrutiny

Vikings officials called the quarterback role a catalyst for the 2026 team and demanded discipline from J.J. McCarthy.
Drafted 10th overall in 2024, McCarthy entered his third season after starting only 10 of 35 games.
He posted a –0.101 EPA per play (33rd of 34) and a 43.8% success rate (32nd).
Alec Lewis of The Athletic said McCarthy’s process has been inconsistent and urged habit improvement to meet Vikings’ quarterback standards.

Summary

Vikings Sign Murray

The Vikings signed Kyler Murray to a one-year contract.
The Vikings used three different starters—Kirk Cousins, Sam Darnold, and J.J. McCarthy—in three consecutive seasons.
In 2025 the Vikings ranked 29th in passing, 28th in total offense and 26th in scoring.
Murray, the 2019 No. 1 overall pick, posted 20,460 passing yards, 121 TDs, 60 INTs, 3,193 rushing yards and 32 rushing touchdowns.

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Murray Joins Vikings

The Vikings signed quarterback Kyler Murray to a $1.3 million deal after the Cardinals released him.
Head coach Kevin O'Connell declined to name a starter when Murray arrived, leading quarterback J.J. McCarthy to say the competition feels like guys in a classroom and deny awkwardness.
In Wednesday’s Eagan practice Murray matched McCarthy’s snaps, hit receiver Jordan Addison and Dillon Bell, and posted a 69.8 QBR, ranking seventh over his four starts.

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