QB J.J. McCarthy, MIN (1 Viewer)

[eighsse2]

Second surgery due to swelling, not expected to affect timeline

 

[King of the Jungle]

Second surgery due to swelling, not expected to affect timeline

Just be ready next year young man

 

[3nOut]

Where would you rank him in Dynasty? What can we realistically expect from him next year?

 

[King of the Jungle]

I think sitting for the year was the best thing for him, obviously not optimally with the focus on the injury. Nonetheless, he got to absorb and learn for the season. I think he can be a top ten quarterback in this system, although tough to rank him that way without any game experience. Personally he is a guy I targeted after the injury and am excited to see how he performs. I like his feet in the pocket and he has enough mobility to extend plays and pick up yards when needed. Vikings have a nice set of weapons at their disposal for the foreseeable future so he is walking into a great situation (along with a great offensive mind at coach). Not much not to like, now it is up to McCarthy to grow into an NFL quarterback. Hopefully he has a similar mindset and work ethic as another former MI QB that did pretty well.

 

[Bri]

Second surgery due to swelling, not expected to affect timeline

This usually means the first surgery didn't go so well.
Meniscus isn't ACL or PCL so plenty of time and little concern.

 

[Faust]

Adam Schefter reveals where JJ McCarthy would rank in 2025 NFL Draft, value in potential trade

 

[Faust]

Mel Kiper Jr. Suggests J.J. McCarthy Could Land Vikings 3 NFL Draft Picks in Trade

 

[-OZ-]

Mel Kiper Jr. Suggests J.J. McCarthy Could Land Vikings 3 NFL Draft Picks in Trade

I don’t think the titans give the 1 straight up for him but the 1 for McCarthy and the Vikings 1st would work for me. I don’t think it happens.
6 or 7 could be in play for the jets or raiders imo.

 

[Grahamburn]

Mel Kiper Jr. Suggests J.J. McCarthy Could Land Vikings 3 NFL Draft Picks in Trade

I don’t think the titans give the 1 straight up for him but the 1 for McCarthy and the Vikings 1st would work for me. I don’t think it happens.
6 or 7 could be in play for the jets or raiders imo.

I’d think they would if they decided he’s a better prospect than Ward/Sanders, and if I’m the Vikings I’m definitely not sending anything back. Especially my 1st.

I agree though that a trade is more likely with a team outside of those guys. They should be able to get a 1st+ from a QB needy team.

And then you wonder what Darnold might fetch in a tag/trade?

 

[zamboni]

And then you wonder what Darnold might fetch in a tag/trade?

Also wondering if this might be the path the Vikings try to take, and if they can't trade Darnold, you have McCarthy sit and watch for another year.

Of course, if Darnold flames out in the playoffs, perhaps the decision will be to just proceed with McCarthy as initially planned.

 

[Grahamburn]

And then you wonder what Darnold might fetch in a tag/trade?

Also wondering if this might be the path the Vikings try to take, and if they can't trade Darnold, you have McCarthy sit and watch for another year.

Of course, if Darnold flames out in the playoffs, perhaps the decision will be to just proceed with McCarthy as initially planned.

Agree. If he looks the same against LA as he did against Detroit I’d tag him at most and may just let him walk.

 

[markrc99]

Of course, if Darnold flames out in the playoffs, perhaps the decision will be to just proceed with McCarthy as initially planned.

Could be wrong, but to me this is the whole of it. It isn't if or when they lose, actually if they don't lose it's over, Darnold is their QB. So, when they lose it'll be all about how they lost. If Darnold bears much of the responsibility, McCarthy's a serious hold. I think he is anyway because landing spot-wise, he hit the freakin' jackpot!

Now, for the wheeler n' dealer perhaps McCarthy for a Spencer Rattler? The bit I saw of him I thought he looked the part. He didn't win, but they're eyeing QB coaches (Kliff Kingsbury & Mike Kafka) for a reason. Once a top recruit at the position who faced a lot of adversity at the collegiate level.

 

[King of the Jungle]

Of course, if Darnold flames out in the playoffs, perhaps the decision will be to just proceed with McCarthy as initially planned.

Could be wrong, but to me this is the whole of it. It isn't if or when they lose, actually if they don't lose it's over, Darnold is their QB. So, when they lose it'll be all about how they lost. If Darnold bears much of the responsibility, McCarthy's a serious hold. I think he is anyway because landing spot-wise, he hit the freakin' jackpot!

Now, for the wheeler n' dealer perhaps McCarthy for a Spencer Rattler? The bit I saw of him I thought he looked the part. He didn't win, but they're eyeing QB coaches (Kliff Kingsbury & Mike Kafka) for a reason. Once a top recruit at the position who faced a lot of adversity at the collegiate level.

Are you suggesting the Vikings trade McCarthy for Rattler?

 

[Grahamburn]

Of course, if Darnold flames out in the playoffs, perhaps the decision will be to just proceed with McCarthy as initially planned.

Could be wrong, but to me this is the whole of it. It isn't if or when they lose, actually if they don't lose it's over, Darnold is their QB. So, when they lose it'll be all about how they lost. If Darnold bears much of the responsibility, McCarthy's a serious hold. I think he is anyway because landing spot-wise, he hit the freakin' jackpot!

Now, for the wheeler n' dealer perhaps McCarthy for a Spencer Rattler? The bit I saw of him I thought he looked the part. He didn't win, but they're eyeing QB coaches (Kliff Kingsbury & Mike Kafka) for a reason. Once a top recruit at the position who faced a lot of adversity at the collegiate level.

Are you suggesting the Vikings trade McCarthy for Rattler?

Hopefully that and NO’s first round pick. Makes some sense.

I love Rattler.

 

[markrc99]

Are you suggesting the Vikings trade McCarthy for Rattler?

No, a dynasty thing, not that I have any experience with that format. However, there are two things I love; one is going on about stuff that will never happen & the other is giving advice on matters I have absolutely no knowledge of!! lol

 

[-OZ-]

Of course, if Darnold flames out in the playoffs, perhaps the decision will be to just proceed with McCarthy as initially planned.

Could be wrong, but to me this is the whole of it. It isn't if or when they lose, actually if they don't lose it's over, Darnold is their QB. So, when they lose it'll be all about how they lost. If Darnold bears much of the responsibility, McCarthy's a serious hold. I think he is anyway because landing spot-wise, he hit the freakin' jackpot!

Now, for the wheeler n' dealer perhaps McCarthy for a Spencer Rattler? The bit I saw of him I thought he looked the part. He didn't win, but they're eyeing QB coaches (Kliff Kingsbury & Mike Kafka) for a reason. Once a top recruit at the position who faced a lot of adversity at the collegiate level.

Are you suggesting the Vikings trade McCarthy for Rattler?

Hopefully that and NO’s first round pick. Makes some sense.

I love Rattler.

Seems far fetched.
I do think Spencer could be a good NFL QB with the right coaching.

 

[Grahamburn]

Of course, if Darnold flames out in the playoffs, perhaps the decision will be to just proceed with McCarthy as initially planned.

Could be wrong, but to me this is the whole of it. It isn't if or when they lose, actually if they don't lose it's over, Darnold is their QB. So, when they lose it'll be all about how they lost. If Darnold bears much of the responsibility, McCarthy's a serious hold. I think he is anyway because landing spot-wise, he hit the freakin' jackpot!

Now, for the wheeler n' dealer perhaps McCarthy for a Spencer Rattler? The bit I saw of him I thought he looked the part. He didn't win, but they're eyeing QB coaches (Kliff Kingsbury & Mike Kafka) for a reason. Once a top recruit at the position who faced a lot of adversity at the collegiate level.

Are you suggesting the Vikings trade McCarthy for Rattler?

Hopefully that and NO’s first round pick. Makes some sense.

I love Rattler.

Seems far fetched.
I do think Spencer could be a good NFL QB with the right coaching.

For sure. Just speculating. 8:00 is so far away!!

 

[Donnybrook]

Of course, if Darnold flames out in the playoffs, perhaps the decision will be to just proceed with McCarthy as initially planned.

Could be wrong, but to me this is the whole of it. It isn't if or when they lose, actually if they don't lose it's over, Darnold is their QB. So, when they lose it'll be all about how they lost. If Darnold bears much of the responsibility, McCarthy's a serious hold. I think he is anyway because landing spot-wise, he hit the freakin' jackpot!

Now, for the wheeler n' dealer perhaps McCarthy for a Spencer Rattler? The bit I saw of him I thought he looked the part. He didn't win, but they're eyeing QB coaches (Kliff Kingsbury & Mike Kafka) for a reason. Once a top recruit at the position who faced a lot of adversity at the collegiate level.

If you suggesting that someone should trade McCarthy for Spencer Rattler, I think you need consider playing a different hobby.

 

[travdogg]

And then you wonder what Darnold might fetch in a tag/trade?

Also wondering if this might be the path the Vikings try to take, and if they can't trade Darnold, you have McCarthy sit and watch for another year.

Of course, if Darnold flames out in the playoffs, perhaps the decision will be to just proceed with McCarthy as initially planned.

Possible hot take, but I think McCarthy is a much better prospect than Sanders is. Maybe not Ward (who I do really like) but I wouldn't be shocked if a year from now we were talking about Daniels and McCarthy being the 2 best QBs in the NFC.

 

[BeTheMatch]

And then you wonder what Darnold might fetch in a tag/trade?

Also wondering if this might be the path the Vikings try to take, and if they can't trade Darnold, you have McCarthy sit and watch for another year.

Of course, if Darnold flames out in the playoffs, perhaps the decision will be to just proceed with McCarthy as initially planned.

Possible hot take, but I think McCarthy is a much better prospect than Sanders is. Maybe not Ward (who I do really like) but I wouldn't be shocked if a year from now we were talking about Daniels and McCarthy being the 2 best QBs in the NFC.

I think it's a commonly held belief that this upcoming rookie QB draft class is not very good, including at the top.

 

[InDitkaWeTrust]

Of course, if Darnold flames out in the playoffs, perhaps the decision will be to just proceed with McCarthy as initially planned.

Could be wrong, but to me this is the whole of it. It isn't if or when they lose, actually if they don't lose it's over, Darnold is their QB. So, when they lose it'll be all about how they lost. If Darnold bears much of the responsibility, McCarthy's a serious hold. I think he is anyway because landing spot-wise, he hit the freakin' jackpot!

Now, for the wheeler n' dealer perhaps McCarthy for a Spencer Rattler? The bit I saw of him I thought he looked the part. He didn't win, but they're eyeing QB coaches (Kliff Kingsbury & Mike Kafka) for a reason. Once a top recruit at the position who faced a lot of adversity at the collegiate level.

I think it is completely absurd to base the signing of a QB on a playoff game. Darnold has played really well this season considering it's his 1st year in the system and he's bounced around the league for years. It is in the best interest of the Vikes to at least franchise Darnold and see how 2025 plays out. Dude is still young and has shown he can be a top tier starter in the league.

 

[BeTheMatch]

Of course, if Darnold flames out in the playoffs, perhaps the decision will be to just proceed with McCarthy as initially planned.

Could be wrong, but to me this is the whole of it. It isn't if or when they lose, actually if they don't lose it's over, Darnold is their QB. So, when they lose it'll be all about how they lost. If Darnold bears much of the responsibility, McCarthy's a serious hold. I think he is anyway because landing spot-wise, he hit the freakin' jackpot!

Now, for the wheeler n' dealer perhaps McCarthy for a Spencer Rattler? The bit I saw of him I thought he looked the part. He didn't win, but they're eyeing QB coaches (Kliff Kingsbury & Mike Kafka) for a reason. Once a top recruit at the position who faced a lot of adversity at the collegiate level.

I think it is completely absurd to base the signing of a QB on a playoff game. Darnold has played really well this season considering it's his 1st year in the system and he's bounced around the league for years. It is in the best interest of the Vikes to at least franchise Darnold and see how 2025 plays out. Dude is still young and has shown he can be a top tier starter in the league.

I don't think it would be based on one playoff game. If KOC thinks he can get this level of play (or more) from JJ McCarthy, then they'll tag and trade Darnold for other much-needed assets.

I personally am in favor of that.

We'll find out soon enough what they think. My guess is the GM will leave it up to KOC basically.

 

[VikingFrog]

Of course, if Darnold flames out in the playoffs, perhaps the decision will be to just proceed with McCarthy as initially planned.

Could be wrong, but to me this is the whole of it. It isn't if or when they lose, actually if they don't lose it's over, Darnold is their QB. So, when they lose it'll be all about how they lost. If Darnold bears much of the responsibility, McCarthy's a serious hold. I think he is anyway because landing spot-wise, he hit the freakin' jackpot!

Now, for the wheeler n' dealer perhaps McCarthy for a Spencer Rattler? The bit I saw of him I thought he looked the part. He didn't win, but they're eyeing QB coaches (Kliff Kingsbury & Mike Kafka) for a reason. Once a top recruit at the position who faced a lot of adversity at the collegiate level.

I think it is completely absurd to base the signing of a QB on a playoff game. Darnold has played really well this season considering it's his 1st year in the system and he's bounced around the league for years. It is in the best interest of the Vikes to at least franchise Darnold and see how 2025 plays out. Dude is still young and has shown he can be a top tier starter in the league.

I don't think it would be based on one playoff game. If KOC thinks he can get this level of play (or more) from JJ McCarthy, then they'll tag and trade Darnold for other much-needed assets.

I personally am in favor of that.

We'll find out soon enough what they think. My guess is the GM will leave it up to KOC basically.

Kwesi gonna have to make sure it works in his Wall Street Prep financial model first.

 

[BeTheMatch]

Of course, if Darnold flames out in the playoffs, perhaps the decision will be to just proceed with McCarthy as initially planned.

Could be wrong, but to me this is the whole of it. It isn't if or when they lose, actually if they don't lose it's over, Darnold is their QB. So, when they lose it'll be all about how they lost. If Darnold bears much of the responsibility, McCarthy's a serious hold. I think he is anyway because landing spot-wise, he hit the freakin' jackpot!

Now, for the wheeler n' dealer perhaps McCarthy for a Spencer Rattler? The bit I saw of him I thought he looked the part. He didn't win, but they're eyeing QB coaches (Kliff Kingsbury & Mike Kafka) for a reason. Once a top recruit at the position who faced a lot of adversity at the collegiate level.

I think it is completely absurd to base the signing of a QB on a playoff game. Darnold has played really well this season considering it's his 1st year in the system and he's bounced around the league for years. It is in the best interest of the Vikes to at least franchise Darnold and see how 2025 plays out. Dude is still young and has shown he can be a top tier starter in the league.

I don't think it would be based on one playoff game. If KOC thinks he can get this level of play (or more) from JJ McCarthy, then they'll tag and trade Darnold for other much-needed assets.

I personally am in favor of that.

We'll find out soon enough what they think. My guess is the GM will leave it up to KOC basically.

Kwesi gonna have to make sure it works in his Wall Street Prep financial model first.

He's making progress. He trades all his picks because he knows he sucks at making them!

 

[Gally]

It is in the best interest of the Vikes to at least franchise Darnold and see how 2025 plays out.

If KOC thinks he can get this level of play (or more) from JJ McCarthy, then they'll tag and trade Darnold for other much-needed assets.

To me the best approach is to Franchise Tag Darnold and let him play another year and prove this year was no fluke. That gives JJM a hopefully healthy year to learn the system and get more seasoning and it kind of turns next year into what this year should have been. The long term cost is not bad and you get another year for evaluation purposes of both guys. Seems like the smartest thing to do to me.

 

[Ray_T]

I’d think they would if they decided he’s a better prospect than Ward/Sanders, and if I’m the Vikings I’m definitely not sending anything back. Especially my 1st.

Never say never.......I think it really depends on what they are getting in return.

if someone dangles a #1 or #2 pick(overall) for JJ and the Vikes first (which will be likely bottom 6 or so ) I think you need to strongly consider the deal. that pick could land you an instant playmaker elsewhere on the field and if you think Darnold is the guy, you gotta go for that championship Now.

 

[BeTheMatch]

I’d think they would if they decided he’s a better prospect than Ward/Sanders, and if I’m the Vikings I’m definitely not sending anything back. Especially my 1st.

Never say never.......I think it really depends on what they are getting in return.

if someone dangles a #1 or #2 pick(overall) for JJ and the Vikes first (which will be likely bottom 6 or so ) I think you need to strongly consider the deal. that pick could land you an instant playmaker elsewhere on the field and if you think Darnold is the guy, you gotta go for that championship Now.

The Vikings don't have their first-round pick

 

[Ray_T]

I’d think they would if they decided he’s a better prospect than Ward/Sanders, and if I’m the Vikings I’m definitely not sending anything back. Especially my 1st.

Never say never.......I think it really depends on what they are getting in return.

if someone dangles a #1 or #2 pick(overall) for JJ and the Vikes first (which will be likely bottom 6 or so ) I think you need to strongly consider the deal. that pick could land you an instant playmaker elsewhere on the field and if you think Darnold is the guy, you gotta go for that championship Now.

The Vikings don't have their first-round pick

then this is clearly an irrelevant line of discussion. its not happening. end of story

 

[menobrown]

And then you wonder what Darnold might fetch in a tag/trade?

Also wondering if this might be the path the Vikings try to take, and if they can't trade Darnold, you have McCarthy sit and watch for another year.

Of course, if Darnold flames out in the playoffs, perhaps the decision will be to just proceed with McCarthy as initially planned.

Possible hot take, but I think McCarthy is a much better prospect than Sanders is. Maybe not Ward (who I do really like) but I wouldn't be shocked if a year from now we were talking about Daniels and McCarthy being the 2 best QBs in the NFC.

I think it's a commonly held belief that this upcoming rookie QB draft class is not very good, including at the top.

And that JJ would likely be the top QB on most teams boards. Probably not all, just most.

Which is why I've been saying if the Vikings made him available, I think he could draw back a top 5 pick.

 

[Hot Sauce Guy]

And then you wonder what Darnold might fetch in a tag/trade?

Also wondering if this might be the path the Vikings try to take, and if they can't trade Darnold, you have McCarthy sit and watch for another year.

Of course, if Darnold flames out in the playoffs, perhaps the decision will be to just proceed with McCarthy as initially planned.

Possible hot take, but I think McCarthy is a much better prospect than Sanders is. Maybe not Ward (who I do really like) but I wouldn't be shocked if a year from now we were talking about Daniels and McCarthy being the 2 best QBs in the NFC.

I think it's a commonly held belief that this upcoming rookie QB draft class is not very good, including at the top.

And that JJ would likely be the top QB on most teams boards. Probably not all, just most.

Which is why I've been saying if the Vikings made him available, I think he could draw back a top 5 pick.

Same could potentially be true if they franchised and dealt Darnold, but the Vikes would have JJM on his rookie deal.

I’ve said all along that I expect the Vikings to either do that, or let Darnold walk.

I also don’t believe that tonight’s game, or the bad game at DET will have any impact on either the Vikings or other teams evaluation of Darnold, or the Vikings plans for JJM.

 

[menobrown]

Same could potentially be true if they franchised and dealt Darnold, but the Vikes would have JJM on his rookie deal.

I think the return would be a lot lower because of that contracts. A lot, hard to say because I can't recall this kind of trade but for it to really happen at all Darnold would likely need to be able to work out parameters of a contract. My guess is they'd be in the ballpark of a second round pick if it was in this range because I do think that while NFL teams by and large always liked Darnold more then the casual fan, and of course like him more then they did last year, I don't know who is willing to put their job on the line paying him a huge salary+a high first round pick hoping he's the same guy without KOC and his weapons.

I also think the Vikings will attempt to do right by Darnold. What that means is not tagging and trading him just anywhere.I may be naive on that, but I recall Cousins talking about how open and honest KOC was him with him last year and into the offseason. I recall the Vikings getting top marks in that NFLPA survey for the family atmosphere, facilities, etc,etc. This just seems like a franchise that sold Darnold on idea of taking a shot with them and KOC, and won't stand in the way of Darnold being in position to reap those rewards and hold him hostage with the tag. That if they did decide to tag him, it would be to keep him. Again, maybe I'm naive.

 

[BeTheMatch]

Same could potentially be true if they franchised and dealt Darnold, but the Vikes would have JJM on his rookie deal.

I think the return would be a lot lower because of that contracts. A lot, hard to say because I can't recall this kind of trade but for it to really happen at all Darnold would likely need to be able to work out parameters of a contract. My guess is they'd be in the ballpark of a second round pick if it was in this range because I do think that while NFL teams by and large always liked Darnold more then the casual fan, and of course like him more then they did last year, I don't know who is willing to put their job on the line paying him a huge salary+a high first round pick hoping he's the same guy without KOC and his weapons.

I also think the Vikings will attempt to do right by Darnold. What that means is not tagging and trading him just anywhere.I may be naive on that, but I recall Cousins talking about how open and honest KOC was him with him last year and into the offseason. I recall the Vikings getting top marks in that NFLPA survey for the family atmosphere, facilities, etc,etc. This just seems like a franchise that sold Darnold on idea of taking a shot with them and KOC, and won't stand in the way of Darnold being in position to reap those rewards and hold him hostage with the tag. That if they did decide to tag him, it would be to keep him. Again, maybe I'm naive.

I think they can tag him and still do right by him via trade. Not just ship him off to highest bidder no matter what.

 

[Hot Sauce Guy]

I also think the Vikings will attempt to do right by Darnold. What that means is not tagging and trading him just anywhere

This is my feeling as well.

 

[menobrown]

Same could potentially be true if they franchised and dealt Darnold, but the Vikes would have JJM on his rookie deal.

I think the return would be a lot lower because of that contracts. A lot, hard to say because I can't recall this kind of trade but for it to really happen at all Darnold would likely need to be able to work out parameters of a contract. My guess is they'd be in the ballpark of a second round pick if it was in this range because I do think that while NFL teams by and large always liked Darnold more then the casual fan, and of course like him more then they did last year, I don't know who is willing to put their job on the line paying him a huge salary+a high first round pick hoping he's the same guy without KOC and his weapons.

I also think the Vikings will attempt to do right by Darnold. What that means is not tagging and trading him just anywhere.I may be naive on that, but I recall Cousins talking about how open and honest KOC was him with him last year and into the offseason. I recall the Vikings getting top marks in that NFLPA survey for the family atmosphere, facilities, etc,etc. This just seems like a franchise that sold Darnold on idea of taking a shot with them and KOC, and won't stand in the way of Darnold being in position to reap those rewards and hold him hostage with the tag. That if they did decide to tag him, it would be to keep him. Again, maybe I'm naive.

I think they can tag him and still do right by him via trade. Not just ship him off to highest bidder no matter what.

They can, but I'm trying to say I don't think they will unless they let Darnold work out parameters of a long term trade or it's a place he told them he wanted to go and under this scenario if it got to it I think it impacts their return.

 

[BeTheMatch]

Same could potentially be true if they franchised and dealt Darnold, but the Vikes would have JJM on his rookie deal.

I think the return would be a lot lower because of that contracts. A lot, hard to say because I can't recall this kind of trade but for it to really happen at all Darnold would likely need to be able to work out parameters of a contract. My guess is they'd be in the ballpark of a second round pick if it was in this range because I do think that while NFL teams by and large always liked Darnold more then the casual fan, and of course like him more then they did last year, I don't know who is willing to put their job on the line paying him a huge salary+a high first round pick hoping he's the same guy without KOC and his weapons.

I also think the Vikings will attempt to do right by Darnold. What that means is not tagging and trading him just anywhere.I may be naive on that, but I recall Cousins talking about how open and honest KOC was him with him last year and into the offseason. I recall the Vikings getting top marks in that NFLPA survey for the family atmosphere, facilities, etc,etc. This just seems like a franchise that sold Darnold on idea of taking a shot with them and KOC, and won't stand in the way of Darnold being in position to reap those rewards and hold him hostage with the tag. That if they did decide to tag him, it would be to keep him. Again, maybe I'm naive.

I think they can tag him and still do right by him via trade. Not just ship him off to highest bidder no matter what.

They can, but I'm trying to say I don't think they will unless they let Darnold work out parameters of a long term trade or it's a place he told them he wanted to go and under this scenario if it got to it I think it impacts their return.

If they decide not to keep him, I'd be shocked if they don't tag him. That would basically be malpractice.

 

[Donnybrook]

Signing Darnold and trading JJ is basically like signing Cousins and passing on Lamar Jackson in the draft. This is one of the reason Speilman is no longer our GM. It is playing safe because you don't want to take a chance on the unknown. It this case the unknown is a QB who has ice in his viens and won a National Championship. As Tomlin has said, don't let good enough be the enemy of great.

 

[Hot Sauce Guy]

Signing Darnold and trading JJ is basically like signing Cousins and passing on Lamar Jackson in the draft. This is one of the reason Speilman is no longer our GM. It is playing safe because you don't want to take a chance on the unknown. It this case the unknown is a QB who has ice in his viens and won a National Championship. As Tomlin has said, don't let good enough be the enemy of great.

And, at the risk of sounding like a broken record, the game in which he was hurt, he looked like a future star - he didn’t leave the game injured. He played through it and showed impressive touch on short throws, and an accurate cannon on a deep shot to JJ.

He looked like he was going to keep Darnold on the bench as a backup, which was seemingly the plan.

There was a lot of excitement in FF circles about JJM being a potential sleeper for about 36 hours until we learned he was hurt and would miss the season.

So it’s not like he’s a complete unknown, or like we don’t know if his skills will translate to the NFL. He showed us they will.

Missing the 2024 season didn’t help him to develop, which is unfortunate. But I don’t think the Vikings would be committing malpractice by letting Darnold walk and starting JJM. That was the plan last year. They’d just be executing the same plan.

 

[BeTheMatch]

Signing Darnold and trading JJ is basically like signing Cousins and passing on Lamar Jackson in the draft. This is one of the reason Speilman is no longer our GM. It is playing safe because you don't want to take a chance on the unknown. It this case the unknown is a QB who has ice in his viens and won a National Championship. As Tomlin has said, don't let good enough be the enemy of great.

And, at the risk of sounding like a broken record, the game in which he was hurt, he looked like a future star - he didn’t leave the game injured. He played through it and showed impressive touch on short throws, and an accurate cannon on a deep shot to JJ.

He looked like he was going to keep Darnold on the bench as a backup, which was seemingly the plan.

There was a lot of excitement in FF circles about JJM being a potential sleeper for about 36 hours until we learned he was hurt and would miss the season.

So it’s not like he’s a complete unknown, or like we don’t know if his skills will translate to the NFL. He showed us they will.

Missing the 2024 season didn’t help him to develop, which is unfortunate. But I don’t think the Vikings would be committing malpractice by letting Darnold walk and starting JJM. That was the plan last year. They’d just be executing the same plan.

I don't know if you're referring to my malpractice comment. But what I was saying was that you don't just let Darnold walk for nothing even if you don't want to keep him. You have an obligation to the franchise to tag him and then trade him for something else.

I'm on team JJ McCarthy at this point given what I've seen of Darnold. (Which really means I'm team KOC.)

 

[Hot Sauce Guy]

I don't know if you're referring to my malpractice comment.

I was not.

Well this is awkward.

 

[Skipdog77]

At least we now know that McCarthy isn't going anywhere. Granted his O-line isn't helping him, but Darnold does not look good again in his 2nd big game in a row.

 

[InDitkaWeTrust]

Signing Darnold and trading JJ is basically like signing Cousins and passing on Lamar Jackson in the draft. This is one of the reason Speilman is no longer our GM. It is playing safe because you don't want to take a chance on the unknown. It this case the unknown is a QB who has ice in his viens and won a National Championship. As Tomlin has said, don't let good enough be the enemy of great.

And, at the risk of sounding like a broken record, the game in which he was hurt, he looked like a future star - he didn’t leave the game injured. He played through it and showed impressive touch on short throws, and an accurate cannon on a deep shot to JJ.

He looked like he was going to keep Darnold on the bench as a backup, which was seemingly the plan.

There was a lot of excitement in FF circles about JJM being a potential sleeper for about 36 hours until we learned he was hurt and would miss the season.

So it’s not like he’s a complete unknown, or like we don’t know if his skills will translate to the NFL. He showed us they will.

Missing the 2024 season didn’t help him to develop, which is unfortunate. But I don’t think the Vikings would be committing malpractice by letting Darnold walk and starting JJM. That was the plan last year. They’d just be executing the same plan.

Even with all that, JJM will effectively still be a rookie in 2025 with all the usual trappings that come with a guy who hasn't played a regular season snap.
I'm pulling for the kids, but it would absolutely be GM malpractice to let Darnold walk before the 2025 season.

 

[King of the Jungle]

Signing Darnold and trading JJ is basically like signing Cousins and passing on Lamar Jackson in the draft. This is one of the reason Speilman is no longer our GM. It is playing safe because you don't want to take a chance on the unknown. It this case the unknown is a QB who has ice in his viens and won a National Championship. As Tomlin has said, don't let good enough be the enemy of great.

And, at the risk of sounding like a broken record, the game in which he was hurt, he looked like a future star - he didn’t leave the game injured. He played through it and showed impressive touch on short throws, and an accurate cannon on a deep shot to JJ.

He looked like he was going to keep Darnold on the bench as a backup, which was seemingly the plan.

There was a lot of excitement in FF circles about JJM being a potential sleeper for about 36 hours until we learned he was hurt and would miss the season.

So it’s not like he’s a complete unknown, or like we don’t know if his skills will translate to the NFL. He showed us they will.

Missing the 2024 season didn’t help him to develop, which is unfortunate. But I don’t think the Vikings would be committing malpractice by letting Darnold walk and starting JJM. That was the plan last year. They’d just be executing the same plan.

Even with all that, JJM will effectively still be a rookie in 2025 with all the usual trappings that come with a guy who hasn't played a regular season snap.
I'm pulling for the kids, but it would absolutely be GM malpractice to let Darnold walk before the 2025 season.

Are you suggesting franchising him or signing him to a longer term contract? The drafted McCarthy for a reason, seems like a good time to make that switch imo. Yes, he lost out on playing time year. However, sitting a year and learning from Darnold may actually be a benefit in the long run for him.

 

[Grahamburn]

Darnold cost himself a lot of money with these two games. Franchise tag at best for him probably.

 

[InDitkaWeTrust]

Signing Darnold and trading JJ is basically like signing Cousins and passing on Lamar Jackson in the draft. This is one of the reason Speilman is no longer our GM. It is playing safe because you don't want to take a chance on the unknown. It this case the unknown is a QB who has ice in his viens and won a National Championship. As Tomlin has said, don't let good enough be the enemy of great.

And, at the risk of sounding like a broken record, the game in which he was hurt, he looked like a future star - he didn’t leave the game injured. He played through it and showed impressive touch on short throws, and an accurate cannon on a deep shot to JJ.

He looked like he was going to keep Darnold on the bench as a backup, which was seemingly the plan.

There was a lot of excitement in FF circles about JJM being a potential sleeper for about 36 hours until we learned he was hurt and would miss the season.

So it’s not like he’s a complete unknown, or like we don’t know if his skills will translate to the NFL. He showed us they will.

Missing the 2024 season didn’t help him to develop, which is unfortunate. But I don’t think the Vikings would be committing malpractice by letting Darnold walk and starting JJM. That was the plan last year. They’d just be executing the same plan.

Even with all that, JJM will effectively still be a rookie in 2025 with all the usual trappings that come with a guy who hasn't played a regular season snap.
I'm pulling for the kids, but it would absolutely be GM malpractice to let Darnold walk before the 2025 season.

Are you suggesting franchising him or signing him to a longer term contract? The drafted McCarthy for a reason, seems like a good time to make that switch imo. Yes, he lost out on playing time year. However, sitting a year and learning from Darnold may actually be a benefit in the long run for him.

If I were in the GM's shoes, I'd angle to Franchise Darnold for the 2025 season. The tag for 2024 was ~38mil. It'll likely be in the low 40s in 2025. The truth is, that's an absolute bargain for a guy who posted 4100 yards and 34TDs. It's also his first season with a QBR > 51 and I think it would be GM malpractice to sign him to a huge contract at this time.

 

[zamboni]

Agree that franchise tag is probably their best option. Could be an insurance policy if McCarthy gets hurt or really struggles. Would certainly be an expensive policy, but may be worth it for a team knocking on the door in the NFC and not having to rely on a Nick Mullens or Josh Dobbs type instead.

 

[Mitchie]

Well they do have Daniel Jones, although he's a free agent so guess technically not on the roster anymore. Franchise tag does make some sense but on the other hand is pretty pricey if McCarthy is going to be healthy and ready to go.

 

[Boston]

Well they do have Daniel Jones, although he's a free agent so guess technically not on the roster anymore. Franchise tag does make some sense but on the other hand is pretty pricey if McCarthy is going to be healthy and ready to go.

What they do with Jones should provide a clue...if they bring him back, I would think that means they are going with JJM with Jones as the veteran insurance (at a reasonable price) like Darnold was last year.

 

[Wigglytuff's Gruff]

It is unlikely that JJ McCarthy can play as well as Sam Darnold did in the regular season this year. That's the way I see it anyway.

 

[BeTheMatch]

It is unlikely that JJ McCarthy can play as well as Sam Darnold did in the regular season this year. That's the way I see it anyway.

But as we just found out, the regular season doesn't mean much.

 

[Boston]

It is unlikely that JJ McCarthy can play as well as Sam Darnold did in the regular season this year. That's the way I see it anyway.

But as we just found out, the regular season doesn't mean much.

And Darnold will be graded very differently next year because he will probably be making dramatically more $.