The Minnesota Vikings have kicked off their training camp as they prepare for the upcoming NFL season with a new quarterback leading the charge. Former first-round pick J.J. McCarthy is set to take the QB mantle after the team parted ways with Sam Darnold despite a 14-3 season.
McCarthy is gearing up for his NFL debut and has been practicing with Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, and others. He addressed the media ahead of the first practice of the 2025 training camp.
The 22-year-old was asked about his experience sharing the locker room with veteran center Ryan Kelly.
"He's been amazing, one of the most favorite teammates I've ever had," McCarthy said. "Just his knowledge about the game, but who he is as a man. It's really one of a kind. And just the depth of knowledge, how he attacks every single day, how he is as a dad, you know, all the things that I get to learn from him on and off the field. It's a tremendous blessing."
Kelly left the Indianapolis Colts in March this year to join the Vikings on a two-year, $18 million contract. The four-time Pro Bowler reads defensive alignments and makes quick protection calls. His football IQ gives him a huge edge over other offensive linemen.
The veteran center is a massive upgrade over Garrett Bradbury. Kelly's experience and superior pass protection would give McCarthy a lot of confidence and assurance. His technique and lower-body strength will undoubtedly help him handle bull rushers better.
McCarthy and Kelly are the two most prominent new faces on the roster. Darnold was sacked nine times in the Wild Card Round loss against the Los Angeles Rams. The 32-year-old center will have to step up for the Vikings for a deeper run into the postseason.
McCarthy was drafted at No. 10 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. He competed for the QB1 spot until a knee injury sidelined him for his entire rookie season. The youngster tore his right knee meniscus in the preseason opener against the Las Vegas Raiders.
The Vikings' QB was away from action for a long time before he was allowed to practice and access team facilities. The coaching staff tried to make the most out of that period, preparing their long-term asset for the 2025 NFL season.
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