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The Minnesota Vikings have made it clear that J.J. McCarthy will be their starting quarterback going forward, marking a new era for the franchise. McCarthy, who led the Michigan Wolverines to a national championship in 2023, was selected by the Vikings as the 10th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. However, his rookie campaign was derailed by a torn meniscus, making him the first first-round quarterback in NFL history to miss an entire season due to injury. Now fully healthy, McCarthy is poised to take over the reins and lead Minnesota’s offence.
While McCarthy brings with him a winning background at the college level, the transition to the professional game often demands experienced support behind the scenes. That’s why the Vikings’ coaching staff, led by head coach Kevin O’Connell, is reportedly exploring options to bring in a veteran backup who can mentor the young quarterback and step in if needed.
According to Josh Buckhalter of Heavy Sports, one viable candidate is Arizona Cardinals quarterback Jacoby Brissett. Brissett is currently serving as Kyler Murray’s backup but has a long track record of experience in the NFL. Notably, he was a rookie backup to Tom Brady during the New England Patriots’ famous comeback win in Super Bowl LI. His leadership, calm demeanour, and understanding of the professional game have made him a dependable figure across several teams.
Brissett returned to New England in 2024 and began the season as the starter before rookie Drake Maye took over the position in Week 6. Despite being moved into a backup role once again, Brissett remains a respected veteran in the league, and a potential trade involving a 2026 seventh-round draft pick could be enough for the Vikings to bring him to Minnesota.
If the Vikings move forward with acquiring Brissett, he would not only serve as insurance for McCarthy but also play a crucial role in his development. McCarthy has the championship mentality from his time at Michigan, but the NFL presents new challenges, and guidance from someone like Brissett could be critical as he adjusts to the pace and complexity of the league.
Regardless of who ultimately backs up McCarthy, the Vikings are in a favourable offensive position. With dynamic playmakers like veteran running back Aaron Jones and star wide receiver Justin Jefferson, who is widely regarded as the best in the NFL, McCarthy will have plenty of weapons at his disposal. The team’s offensive talent provides a solid foundation as McCarthy begins his professional journey, and the addition of a seasoned backup could help ensure a smoother transition into the franchise quarterback role.