EAGAN, Minn. — J.J. McCarthy’s inaugural season as the Minnesota Vikings quarterback was heavily analyzed, including scrutiny over his injuries, accuracy, and demeanor. However, a lingering question was how his teammates genuinely felt about playing with a 22-year-old quarterback whose performance often did not match his evident confidence.
The Vikings assembled one of the oldest and priciest rosters in hopes of making a playoff push while McCarthy matured on the field. This strategy fell short by a mere half-game in the NFC playoff standings, primarily due to McCarthy’s performances. Throughout the season, he drew more attention for his off-field remarks, facial expressions, and the timing of his touchdown celebrations.
In his tenth and final start of the season, McCarthy became the only NFL quarterback this year to receive a taunting penalty, after delivering a shoulder hit to Green Bay Packers’ Keisean Nixon and making an inappropriate comment, warranting an immediate flag.
During the less exciting moments of training camp, some veteran players reportedly found his energetic style exhausting. However, any key player who may have become disillusioned by the season’s end chose not to voice it.
Vikings right guard Will Fries expressed his admiration for McCarthy, stating, “I absolutely love playing with J.J. What a tremendous leader he is for how young he is. He’s got a lot of moxie and swagger. While he’s still improving, he’s incredibly fun to play with. His determination in the huddle gives you confidence, and I’m eager for his future growth.”
McCarthy’s final play of the 2025 season encapsulated his unique standing on an otherwise veteran squad. After completing a routine 8-yard pass to receiver Justin Jefferson, McCarthy walked to the sideline to signal to backup Max Brosmer. This unusual move highlighted McCarthy’s commitment to a specific coaching directive.
Having previously ignored pain in his hand until a mishap in a Week 16 game against the New York Giants, McCarthy took himself out to avoid further complications. Although some criticized his dramatic gestures with his injured hand, many teammates, including right tackle Brian O’Neill, were relieved it wasn’t serious. Fries noted that McCarthy’s dedication and toughness were qualities that the team truly respects and admires.
