McCarthy’s 2025 numbers reflect a difficult transition: a 61.8 overall PFF grade (35th among 43 qualifiers) and a 60.1 passing grade (also 35th). He finished the year with 1,632 passing yards, 11 touchdowns, 12 interceptions, and 291 dropbacks, along with 156 rushing yards and four rushing scores on a 71.6 rushing grade.
QB mentor John Beck said McCarthy has shown progress this offseason, prioritizing the right mindset and focusing on areas to improve. He stressed that McCarthy should stay centered on his own preparation, even as the team added Murray and contended with the looming storyline of the competition.
Beck pointed out that the Vikings did not guarantee Murray a market-setting contract, which keeps the door open for a true offseason competition. He advised McCarthy to block out the external chatter, concentrate on daily reps, and let consistent effort and preparation drive his performance rather than outcomes or roster decisions.
Vikings wideout Justin Jefferson acknowledged the potential upside Murray brings, while underscoring that McCarthy must lock in and meet the challenge if he wants Week 1 duties. Jefferson highlighted McCarthy’s need to respond to the arrival of a high-caliber quarterback with improved playmaking, speed, and decision-making.
Looking ahead, the quarterback battle will be a central storyline in Minnesota’s training camp and early season. The Vikings appear committed to evaluating all options, with McCarthy’s development, practice performance, and ability to handle competition likely to determine whether he retains the starting role in Week 1.
