Imagine having three quarterbacks to choose from, only to watch the two you let go thrive while your chosen one struggles. That’s the reality the Minnesota Vikings are facing right now.
By the end of the 2024 season, the Vikings had a trio of quarterbacks on their roster: Sam Darnold, who led the team to an impressive 14-3 regular season record; Daniel Jones, signed mid-season after his release from the New York Giants; and rookie J.J. McCarthy, sidelined for the entire year with a torn meniscus. But here's where it gets controversial: after Darnold faltered in crucial games—losing the NFC North decider and a playoff match against the Rams—the Vikings decided he wasn’t their long-term solution. Jones, meanwhile, failed to impress in practice, leaving McCarthy as the default choice.
Fast forward to 2025, and the decision looks questionable. Darnold and Jones have revitalized their careers with the Seahawks and Colts, respectively, while McCarthy has struggled to find his footing. In Week 1, McCarthy’s come-from-behind victory against the Bears had fans hopeful, but by Week 12, the Vikings are floundering at 4-6, well outside playoff contention. McCarthy’s stats—fewer touchdowns, more turnovers, and a lower passer rating compared to Darnold and Jones—raise questions about the team’s decision-making.
McCarthy himself acknowledges the challenges of transitioning to the NFL, citing injuries and the need to adapt to a new system. ‘It’s really hard,’ he admitted, ‘You’re rewiring neurological pathways, and that’s not something that happens overnight.’ While his learning curve is understandable, the Vikings’ steep decline from their 2024 success makes it harder to stomach. With a star receiver like Justin Jefferson and a solid defense, it’s natural to wonder: would the team be better off with Darnold or Jones under center?
And this is the part most people miss: the Vikings likely prioritized long-term potential and cost control with McCarthy, who remains on a rookie contract. But for now, the results are stark. Darnold’s Seahawks are 7-3, Jones’s Colts are 8-2, and the Vikings are left questioning what could have been. Is McCarthy the right choice for the future, or did the Vikings let their best options slip away?
As we head into Week 12, here’s what else to watch:
- Colts (8-2) at Chiefs (5-5): Can Patrick Mahomes avoid a third straight loss? Daniel Jones, despite recent struggles, aims to prove his worth.
- Steelers (6-4) at Bears (7-3): The Bears’ league-leading turnover margin faces Pittsburgh’s formidable defense.
- Patriots (9-2) at Bengals (3-7): Rookie TreVeyon Henderson chases history, while the Bengals miss Ja’Marr Chase due to suspension.
- Vikings (4-6) at Packers (6-3-1): McCarthy’s interception streak could tie him with some infamous company.
- Seahawks (7-3) at Titans (1-9): Sam Darnold looks to rebound after a four-interception game.
What do you think? Did the Vikings make the right call with McCarthy, or should they have stuck with Darnold or Jones? Let us know in the comments!
