Kyler Murray Seizes Early Edge in Vikings OTA Battle With J.J. McCarthy at Age 28
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · May 28
Kyler Murray Seizes Early Edge in Vikings OTA Battle With J.J. McCarthy at Age 28
9 articles · Updated · The New York Times · May 28
Minnesota split first-team-style OTA work between Kyler Murray and J.J. McCarthy, but Murray looked like the clearer No. 1 through touch throws, blitz recognition and a deep sideline strike to Jordan Addison.
Kevin O'Connell still declined to name a starter after signing Murray in March, with the Vikings using the competition to raise urgency in the quarterback room and across the roster.
Murray, 28, projected comfort on and off the field, saying his confidence is "unshakable" and drawing praise from Addison, who called the veteran calm and in command.
McCarthy, 23, was also efficient and healthier than he often looked in 2025, but his more guarded comments on Murray's arrival and their relationship hinted at a less settled dynamic.
The setup gives Minnesota a high-profile spring storyline, yet if practices keep tilting toward Murray, selling the contest as truly even may get harder.
With Kyler Murray impressing, is former top-10 pick J.J. McCarthy already on his way out of Minnesota?
Can a one-year deal with the Vikings be the career-saving fresh start Kyler Murray desperately needs?