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Vikings Delay QB Starter Decision Until Training Camp

6/12/2026

Summary

Vikings Delay Starter

Head coach Kevin O’Connell said the Vikings will wait until training camp to name a starter.
Quarterbacks Kyler Murray and J.J. McCarthy will keep competing through training camp with no deadline.
Murray said splitting reps is the toughest part of learning the new offense after two interceptions.
The Vikings hope to have the starter ready before the September 13 opener against the Packers.

Summary

O'Connell Maintains Competition

Head coach Kevin O’Connell said Murray’s March 30 remarks did not change his approach to the Vikings’ quarterback competition.
He explained that running plays at less than full speed in drills aids learning for both quarterbacks and that he will not read too much into daily rep distribution.
The Vikings confirmed the competition became genuine after signing Murray in March, and Murray and J.J. McCarthy have received equal practice reps all summer.

Summary

Phillips Praises McCarthy

Wes Phillips said the Vikings have a good culture and he will not fuel the quarterback debate.
Phillips praised quarterback J.J. McCarthy’s upward trajectory and noted his intentional offseason work on fundamentals when no one was watching.
Tight end T.J. Hockenson said McCarthy returned from California markedly improved, ready to play and throw.
Mandatory minicamp ends Thursday, with organized team activities June 15-18 followed by a month-long break before training camp.

History

Historical Context

In 1999, after starter Trent Green tore his ACL, the St. Louis Rams promoted undrafted backup Kurt Warner, who guided the team to a 13-3 season and a Super Bowl XXXIV win. That surprise rise showed how merit-based quarterback battles can produce championship play. The 2024 Minnesota Vikings echo that pattern, keeping Kyler Murray and rookie J.J. McCarthy in a split-time contest through training camp.

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Vikings Delay Starter

Head coach Kevin O’Connell said the Vikings will wait until training camp to name a starter.
Quarterbacks Kyler Murray and J.J. McCarthy will keep competing through training camp with no deadline.
Murray said splitting reps is the toughest part of learning the new offense after two interceptions.
The Vikings hope to have the starter ready before the September 13 opener against the Packers.

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