Wilf also addressed the family’s long-term commitment to the franchise amid soaring NFL team values and recent ownership sales. The Vikings are not being positioned for an exit. The next generation of the Wilf family is becoming involved, and ownership intends to remain in place.
Murray’s arrival gives the Vikings a legitimate alternative to McCarthy and gives O’Connell flexibility he did not have when injuries repeatedly forced changes at the position last season. It also gives Murray a fresh opportunity after seven years in Arizona.
Flores said Minnesota has assembled a productive mix of rookies, developing players and established veterans, creating legitimate battles at several positions.
“You don’t have to watch his tape very long to feel that play extension and the ability to not only steal some first downs with his legs, but he can go get a lot more than that.” -- Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell on projected QB1 Kyler Murray
The Vikings could add another veteran quarterback, draft another young passer and force McCarthy to earn his way back into the starting job. Competition is the reality of the NFL, where roster spots — and careers — are constantly on the line.
McCarthy didn’t just remove himself from a game. He removed himself from a moment. And moments like that don’t come back. Not in January. Not in training camp. Not with a clean injury report.
Minnesota is being snuffed out for deception. The “quarterback lab” is nothing more than cheap business theater. The Wilfs chose accountants over ambition. Jefferson deserves better, and deep down, he knows it. We all know it.
So here we go. Game 1 of the Preseason of Prayer. QB1 J.J. McCarthy gets the start. The hype machine is revved up. The fanbase is ready. And the Vikings are rolling the dice with a rookie quarterback, a patchwork roster, and a hope-filled shrug. It’s a very Vikings thing to do.
"Kwesi's commitment to building a championship-caliber team and his ability to collaborate effectively and make bold, calculated decisions has positioned the Vikings for long-term success." -- Zygi Wilf, Vikings owner/chairman
"Many quarterbacks have faced similar challenges early in their careers and have returned even stronger. I not only expect that for J.J., I know it will happen." Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell on J.J. McCarthy
Vikings' draft picks: First round: 10th overall: QB J.J. McCarthy, Michigan First round: 17rd overall: OLB Dallas Turner, Alabama Fourth round: 108th overall: CB Khyree Jackson, Oregon Sixth round: 177th overall: T Walter Rouse, Oklahoma Sixth round: 203th overall: K Will Reichard, Alabama Seventh round: 230th overall: OL
