A blockbuster trade proposal has surfaced involving the Minnesota Vikings and their 2024 first-round draft pick, quarterback J.J. McCarthy. In a surprising twist, the scenario envisions McCarthy heading to an AFC team in a deal that could significantly reshape the NFL offseason landscape.
McCarthy’s Journey to Minnesota
The Vikings traded up in the 2024 NFL Draft to secure McCarthy with the 10th overall pick. He was highly touted as a potential franchise quarterback and was set to compete with veteran Sam Darnold for the starting role. Unfortunately, McCarthy’s rookie season ended before it began, as he suffered a devastating knee injury that required season-ending surgery during the preseason.
Meanwhile, Sam Darnold, who joined Minnesota as a free agent, seized the opportunity and delivered the best season of his career. Heading into Week 18, Darnold has led the Vikings to an impressive 14-2 record. His performance has been nothing short of remarkable: completing 68.1% of his passes for 4,153 yards, 35 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. These MVP-caliber numbers have not only solidified his role as the team’s starting quarterback but also earned him a lucrative contract extension with the Vikings.
The Dilemma: Darnold or McCarthy?
With Darnold firmly entrenched as the starter, the Vikings are faced with a difficult decision regarding McCarthy. Although the young quarterback has yet to play a single NFL snap, his pedigree and potential make him a highly sought-after asset. If Minnesota decides to commit to Darnold for the long term, trading McCarthy could bring a significant return of draft capital and players.
Proposed Trade: McCarthy to the Jets
A trade scenario proposed by FanDuel Sportsbook highlights the New York Jets as a potential destination for McCarthy. The hypothetical deal would see Minnesota send McCarthy to the Jets in exchange for a 2025 first-round pick, a 2025 fourth-round pick, a 2027 second-round pick, and running back Braelon Allen.
The Jets, coming off a disastrous 2024 campaign, are widely expected to part ways with veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Whether Rodgers opts for retirement or is released, New York will likely need a new signal-caller for 2025. McCarthy, with his high upside, could be an appealing solution for a franchise desperate to rebound.
A Weak 2025 QB Draft Class Spurs Interest
The 2025 NFL Draft is projected to have a shallow pool of quarterback prospects, with Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders standing out as the top option. Teams that miss out on Sanders might view McCarthy as a viable alternative, especially given his first-round pedigree and untapped potential.
Other Potential Suitors for McCarthy
While the Jets are a logical fit, other quarterback-needy teams could emerge as contenders for McCarthy. Among them are the Las Vegas Raiders, New York Giants, Cleveland Browns, New Orleans Saints, and Seattle Seahawks. Each of these franchises has either struggled with inconsistent quarterback play or faces uncertainty at the position heading into the 2025 season.
For the Raiders, McCarthy could represent a fresh start after years of instability under center. The Giants might see him as a successor to Daniel Jones, who has faced criticism for his performance. The Browns and Saints could use McCarthy to stabilize their offenses, while the Seahawks may view him as an heir apparent to Geno Smith.
Conclusion: A Franchise-Altering Decision Looms
The Vikings have a golden opportunity to shape their future, either by sticking with Sam Darnold or by leveraging J.J. McCarthy’s trade value. If McCarthy is indeed moved, it could mark one of the most significant trades of the offseason, potentially setting the stage for the Jets—or another team—to rebuild around the young quarterback. As the NFL offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on Minnesota to see how they handle this high-stakes situation.
Vikings Stun The NFL By Sending J.J. McCarthy To QB-Needy AFC Team In Blockbuster Trade Proposal That Would Send Shockwaves Across The NFL
