Vikings’ Head Coach Confirms QB Competition in Training Camp

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J.J. McCarthy throwing at Minnesota Vikings minicamp
Credit: Photo courtesy of the Minnesota Vikings

Minnesota Vikings’ head coach Kevin O’Connell has Vikings’ fans spinning heading into the weekend with training camp on the horizon in just about a week. Rookies report to Eagan, MN on Sunday, July 21st with everyone else reporting on Tuesday, July 23rd. Although players will be at TCO Performance Center next week, the first official practice won’t take place until Saturday, July 27th.

J.J. McCarthy vs. Sam Darnold in Minnesota Vikings’ training camp

Appearing on the Power Trip Morning Show on KFAN, O’Connell was asked about McCarthy and Darnold. In what was a clear response, O’Connell confirmed that there will be competition between Darnold and McCarthy in training camp.

My hope [is J.J. McCarthy’s] a Minnesota Vikings‘ quarterback for a really long time.  He’s doing everything in his power I’m sure he’s going to have a great training camp.  It’s going to be competitive with him and Sam [Darnold].  I’m really looking forward to it.

Kevin O’Connell (KFAN)

This might be shocking to a lot of Minnesota Vikings’ fans, but in reality, it really isn’t. Although Darnold was declared the starter heading into training camp, that in no way shape or form means anything. Darnold is a veteran and McCarthy is a rookie. Minicamp and organized team activities are important in the offseason, but this is when the competition starts to really matter.

Naming a J.J. McCarthy or Sam Darnold starter to early causes problems

O’Connell is playing things perfectly right now. The Vikings have been clear from day one about taking things slowly with McCarthy. Downplaying any high expectations after he was drafted 10th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. O’Connell has also been hyping up Darnold all offseason too.

Whoever ends up starting week one, things will have been played out perfectly by O’Connell. McCarthy wins, great. He’s the highest drafted quarterback in franchise history. If Darnold wins the starting job, that’s fine too. O’Connell continues to remind fans the success Darnold has had this offseason so this wouldn’t be a surprise.

Related: Vikings’ First Round Rookies Unlikely to Hold Out of Training Camp

Overall, time will sort this quarterback competition out throughout the weeks of training camp, preseason games, and the joint-practices with the Cleveland Browns. One thing is clear though, O’Connell expects competition and this will not be handed to Darnold automatically even though the media has been wanting you to think that.

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