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Vikings minicamp: Murray intercepts twice, wants more reps

6/10/2026

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Summary

Murray Throws Interceptions

Quarterback Kyler Murray threw interceptions on his first two 7-on-7 passes at the Vikings’ mandatory minicamp in Eagan, Minnesota.
Head coach Kevin O'Connell split reps between quarterback Kyler Murray and rookie J.J. McCarthy, who said he focuses on each rep and is confident he will thrive.
Quarterback Kyler Murray said limited reps are toughest, he wants more QB1 reps despite interceptions, and he remains in the Week 1 starter battle.

Summary

O'Connell Interceptions

Kevin O'Connell’s first non-checkdown passes were intercepted—Gavin Bartholomew’s throw was caught by Theo Jackson and Jauan Jennings’s by former teammate Byron Murphy Jr.
He called the offense “complex,” a view shared by Kirk Cousins and Sam Darnold, and said quarterback dialogue stays professional despite media focus.
The 29-year-old rookie, a No. 1 overall pick released by Arizona after injuries, reiterated his love for the Vikings and said he can thrive there.

Summary

McCarthy Trade Rumors

Speculation arose that J.J. McCarthy could be traded if he fails to win the Vikings' starting quarterback role.
McCarthy, a 2024 NFL Draft pick, is entering his third season with Minnesota.
The first interception resulted from a miscommunication with tight end Gavin Bartholomew, who broke toward the outside as Murray released the pass.
Murray said he is not too worried about competition and is focusing on personal growth.

History

Historical Context

After drafting Daunte Culpepper 11th overall in 1999, Minnesota waited until 2000 before naming him starter, guiding the Vikings to an 11-5 record and 3,937 passing yards. A later 2005 injury to Culpepper forced Brad Johnson into the role, showing the club’s willingness to rotate quarterbacks. Coach Kevin O'Connell now faces a similar decision between Kyler Murray and rookie J.J. McCarthy in 2024.

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Murray Throws Interceptions

Quarterback Kyler Murray threw interceptions on his first two 7-on-7 passes at the Vikings’ mandatory minicamp in Eagan, Minnesota.
Head coach Kevin O'Connell split reps between quarterback Kyler Murray and rookie J.J. McCarthy, who said he focuses on each rep and is confident he will thrive.
Quarterback Kyler Murray said limited reps are toughest, he wants more QB1 reps despite interceptions, and he remains in the Week 1 starter battle.

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