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Vikings Name Kyler Murray 2026 Starter Ahead of McCarthy

8/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell named Kyler Murray the 2026 starter over J.J. McCarthy.
Murray threw 2-of-3 passes for ten yards in the 13-10 win over the Giants on Aug. 13.
McCarthy completed 4-of-7 for 34 yards, was sacked once, posted a 69.9 rating and will stay the No. 2 quarterback.
Carson Wentz, filling in for injured Max Brosmer, recorded a 103.6 rating and a touchdown to Myles Price.

History

Historical Context

Since joining the NFL in 1961, the Vikings have repeatedly reshaped their offense through quarterback swaps. In 1998, Randall Cunningham guided a 15-1 season, while Daunte Culpepper’s promotion in 2000 sparked a 15-1 run and a 3,937-yard passing year. This legacy of decisive QB changes continues to influence the franchise’s current roster moves.

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Story summary

Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell named Kyler Murray the 2026 starter over J.J. McCarthy.
Murray threw 2-of-3 passes for ten yards in the 13-10 win over the Giants on Aug. 13.
McCarthy completed 4-of-7 for 34 yards, was sacked once, posted a 69.9 rating and will stay the No. 2 quarterback.
Carson Wentz, filling in for injured Max Brosmer, recorded a 103.6 rating and a touchdown to Myles Price.

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