McCarthy Calls Vikings' QB Battle 'True Competition' After Murray's $1.3 Million Arrival
Updated
Updated · ESPN · May 27
McCarthy Calls Vikings' QB Battle 'True Competition' After Murray's $1.3 Million Arrival
4 articles · Updated · ESPN · May 27
J.J. McCarthy said Wednesday there is no awkwardness with Kyler Murray, framing Minnesota's quarterback fight as a "true competition" in his first public comments since Murray signed.
At the Vikings' second OTA, the two split first-team work in 7-on-7 and team drills, with Murray delivering the sharpest throws — including a deep ball to Jordan Addison.
McCarthy said the signing was out of his control and that his focus is daily improvement, while Murray said their early interactions have been "great" and that he is willing to help the younger quarterback.
The competition emerged after McCarthy posted a 35.6 QBR over 10 starts last season — third worst among qualifying NFL quarterbacks — despite a late surge to 69.8 over his final four games.
Minnesota signed Murray in March after Arizona released him, and coach Kevin O'Connell has still not named a starter, setting up a summer battle for the job.
Is this QB competition a true test for McCarthy, or has Minnesota already found its low-cost starter in Kyler Murray?
Can Kevin O'Connell's system revive Kyler Murray's career, or is this a mismatch of player style and coaching philosophy?