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Lions Pit Murray Against McCarthy in QB Battle

7/28/2026

45 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Head coach Kevin O'Connell opened a quarterback competition between Kyler Murray and J.J. McCarthy at the TCO Performance Center as training camp began in late July 2026.
He will not name a starter until camp ends and will monitor each quarterback’s rep distribution.
The offensive line focus is on left tackle Christian Darrisaw’s return from a knee injury and right tackle Brian O’Neill’s absence from OTAs while his contract is pending.

History

Historical Context

In 2001, after Drew Bledsoe’s injury, New England promoted rookie Tom Brady, leading the Patriots to an 11-5 regular season and a 20-17 Super Bowl XXXVI win, their first title in 16 years. The Rams’ 2026 quarterback competition between Kyler Murray and J.J. McCarthy under coach Kevin O’Connell echoes that gamble, showing how mid-season QB shifts can reshape a franchise’s fortunes.

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Story summary

Head coach Kevin O'Connell opened a quarterback competition between Kyler Murray and J.J. McCarthy at the TCO Performance Center as training camp began in late July 2026.
He will not name a starter until camp ends and will monitor each quarterback’s rep distribution.
The offensive line focus is on left tackle Christian Darrisaw’s return from a knee injury and right tackle Brian O’Neill’s absence from OTAs while his contract is pending.

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