Brent Sobleski of Bleacher Report believes that because he didn't play in 2024, McCarthy's 2025 season should be treated as his rookie season. McCarthy is ranked last among the six quarterbacks in expected improvement because of his lost rookie year.

The preseason used to be more predictable in terms of when starters would play given the four-game length. Now with three games teams treat the outline differently. NFL Draft Analyst Thor Nystrom has confirmed that the MN Vikings will use JJ McCarthy in game one of the exhibition schedule.

McCarthy has impressed, Brian Flores' defense looks sharp and there are roster battles aplenty as the Vikings prepare to put pads on Monday.