With the Vikings’ recent acquisition of another 2024 first-round pick, the team seems to be signaling to the NFL world that it plans to move up and take one of the top quarterbacks in this year’s draft.
Appearing on CBS’ “With the First Pick” podcast this week, ex-Minnesota GM Rick Spielman shared that he believes his former employer will overpay to select Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy come April 25.
“They’re going to have to give [picks 11 and 23] and their 2025 first, plus some more draft capital,” Spielman said. “I think J.J. will be a good pro, but Minnesota will overpay to get him. At this point, they don’t have a choice [given their current QB room].”
The Vikes decided to let Kirk Cousins walk this offseason after the 35-year-old suffered a season-ending Achilles tear in 2023. Cousins has since landed with the Atlanta Falcons leaving the only QBs on Minnesota’s roster being Sam Darnold, Nick Mullens and Jaren Hall.
McCarthy has been the the quarterback that’s reportedly impressed scouts the most in their private meetings. However, many have fans have questions about him considering he didn’t exactly light the world on fire as a Wolverine.
What McCarthy lacks in measurables and splash plays though he makes up for with intangibles, leadership and heart. But will that be enough for him to become a team’s franchise QB in the NFL?