Aug 10, 2024; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) warms up before the game against the Las Vegas Raiders at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports
J.J. McCarthy Leaves Vikings Fans Excited with Final Preseason Impression
Preseason football often sparks mixed feelings. After months without the sport, fans will take anything they can get. But the hunger for football also makes people prone to overreaction—every throw from a young quarterback can look like either a sign of greatness or impending disaster.
That’s been the case with J.J. McCarthy. His seven pass attempts against the Texans created polarizing reactions: some praised his poise, while others worried about accuracy. But his most recent showing may have silenced doubts, at least for now.
With Sam Howell set to start the final preseason game, McCarthy’s last on-field impression came Thursday during joint practices with the Patriots. Reporters noted he shredded New England’s defense, showing growth and resilience after a shakier start earlier in the week.
This offseason has been full of ups and downs for the rookie. Missing his first NFL season, working without Justin Jefferson and Christian Darrisaw, and facing Minnesota’s strong defense daily, McCarthy’s progress has been gradual. Still, he’s consistently flashed the talent that made him a first-round pick, even when things didn’t go smoothly.
Against New England, his performance stood out: decisiveness, confidence, and improved touch on his throws. His fourth-down scramble in the preseason opener was an example of calculated decision-making, not desperation—a sign that he’s reading defenses and adjusting quickly.
While his arm strength has never been in question, touch and consistency remain areas of growth. At times he fires with unnecessary velocity, leading to accuracy issues, and when trying to add finesse, he risks underthrowing. These are correctable traits that should improve with coaching and repetition.
Though some concerns will inevitably resurface in real games, Thursday’s display showed he has the tools to succeed. Fans won’t see him again until Week 1 against the Bears, but his final preseason impression was exactly what Minnesota hoped for—evidence of progress, command of the offense, and a glimpse of his potential ceiling.
For Vikings fans craving optimism, McCarthy gave them something real to hold onto.
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