The Vikings are going with JJ McCarthy as their guy for this season. There are mixed reviews about how the season will unfold for them. In a recent appearance on Colin Cowherd’s The Herd, The Athletic’s Dianna Russini made it clear that McCarthy could disappoint some fans.
“Do I think J.J. McCarthy is wowing everyone at training camp? No, I don’t… [Vikings fans] are going to be disappointed,” Russini said on The Herd.
However, if it’s up to Justin Jefferson, he’ll do whatever it takes to get his quarterback ready for the season.
“Our lockers are right next to each other, so every chance that I get to talk to him about football, about anything that goes on outside of football. Just try to get to know him as much as I can because when the season comes and whenever we're locked in, I want him to be just as confident as I am of him to make the plays out there,” Jefferson said.
McCarthy was recently asked about a scuffle over the weekend with rookie linebacker Tyler Batty, which revealed another side of him.
“Those are my brothers. And no matter who it is, especially 33 (Jones’ jersey number), I’m the first guy in the fight, no matter what. They know that. I know they would do the same thing for me,” McCarthy said. “Just as a QB and former hockey player — I used to be the enforcer out there, believe it or not — I love that stuff. Letting my teammates know I got their back, because I know they got mine.”
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While many are doubting McCarthy this season, former Vikings quarterback Tommy Kramer believes he’s going to be the guy.
“Two things you can’t teach, instinct and the will to win. This kid has them both, he’s the real deal. Viking fans, good reason to be excited for the season and years to come,” Kramer posted.
Everyone on the team has faith in what the young quarterback can do. He has all the potential in the world; he just needs to figure it all out. Kramer’s confidence in him should help fans feel the same way.