Minnesota Vikings general manager Nolan Teasley told reporters Wednesday that he expects quarterback J.J. McCarthy to be on the roster when the team opens its season.
"J.J. McCarthy's role is to continue to develop, to improve, and to support his teammates," Teasley said. "And he's done an excellent job of that from the moment that I've been here and, from my understanding, since he walked through the door."
After suffering an ankle injury in Minnesota's second preseason game, McCarthy told the team's medical staff that he wasn't comfortable playing in the preseason finale, a source told ESPN's Kevin Seifert. However, Teasley said the 23-year-old has fully practiced over the last two days.
The Vikings selected McCarthy 10th overall in the 2024 draft, months after he won a national championship with Michigan. He missed his entire rookie year due to an ankle injury and then stepped into the starting job in 2025. The signal-caller largely struggled, throwing for 1,632 yards with 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions in 10 starts while guiding Minnesota to a 6-4 record.
Among 33 qualifying quarterbacks last season, McCarthy ranked 32nd in EPA/dropback and last in passer rating, according to TruMedia. He also missed seven games due to various injuries.
Teasley wouldn't comment on whether McCarthy or Carson Wentz will be Kyler Murray's primary backup when the season begins. Murray won the starting job early in camp after joining the team on a one-year deal this offseason.
"He's really talented," Teasley added. "I think I said that from the jump. He was picked in the first round for a reason. Really good arm strength, underrated athlete. Looking forward to how he continues to develop in this system.
"I think that the thing you need to keep in mind with J.J. is that he has the hardest job in sports. He's only started 10 games and his story's not written."
The Vikings will meet the Green Bay Packers in Week 1 on Sept. 13.
