The Minnesota Vikings named Kyler Murray as their starting quarterback over third-year pro J.J. McCarthy, head coach Kevin O'Connell announced Tuesday.
Murray won the quarterback battle before the Vikings even played a preseason game. He'll be Minnesota's fourth different Week 1 starter in as many years, following McCarthy (2025), Sam Darnold (2024), and Kirk Cousins (2023).
A former No. 1 overall pick, Murray joined the Vikings on a one-year deal this offseason with the hopes of winning the No. 1 role. He spent the first seven seasons of his career with the Arizona Cardinals before being released earlier this year.
McCarthy has suffered several setbacks since being drafted 10th overall by the Vikings in 2024. He sat out his entire rookie season following meniscus surgery and missed five games in his second year due to an ankle injury. He also struggled with consistency issues during his 12 games as a starter in 2025, throwing more interceptions (12) than touchdowns (11) while completing 57.6% of his passes.
Meanwhile, a foot injury limited Murray to five contests in his final campaign with the Cardinals. The 29-year-old's latest contract includes a no-tag clause, giving him the option to become a free agent next offseason.
Murray owns a career record of 38-48-1 with 121 passing touchdowns, 32 rushing scores, and 60 interceptions. He hasn't posted a winning record as a starter since going 9-5 in 2021, his only season that culminated in a playoff appearance.
