Tuesday wasn’t one of the best days in J.J. McCarthy’s professional career, as the Minnesota Vikings named Kyler Murray the starting quarterback. Head coach Kevin O’Connell spoke highly of McCarthy after the decision.

“In no way does this diminish anything that J.J.’s demonstrated. There’s been real, real strong, solid evidence of growth. Some of the things we really pinpointed for him in the
offseason, he’s shown a tireless commitment to doing those things, and it’s shown up
out here on the grass. Even more so than that, he’s embraced it. The challenge of it, with
the right mindset every day that I think will have great benefit on him moving forward,” said O’Connell.

J.J. McCarthy comments on his future with Minnesota Vikings

McCarthy started out his media availability with a simple comment.

“Look, you know, decision was made that was out of my control, and obviously every competitor wants to play. But moving forward, it’s just about continuing to work hard and just staying ready for when my number’s called,” said McCarthy,

It’s a very political response from McCarthy, who was very smart in how he approached the subject. He was also pressed on whether or not he sees a future with the Vikings.

“Like I said before, you know this is a place I want to be, and I love every single person in this building. I love the state. I love the fan base, and I’m going to continue to just do whatever I can for this team and this organization,”

He said similar things when asked about being traded during mandatory minicamp in June, and he continued that on Wednesday. McCarthy also knows how often Vikings quarterbacks have been injured over the last few years, which could easily give him a start or two this season.

“Yes, I believe so,” said McCarthy about if he believes he’s a starter in the NFL. “I’m always going to have that confidence in myself, no matter what. But at this time, it’s doing whatever I can for the team, and you know, being ready when my number’s called, and that’s all that matters. That’s all I can control.”

All of these are good quotes from McCarthy, and he kept that when pressed on the nuances of the quarterback position.

“That’s a question for Kevin and the staff. You know, I feel like just me continuing to develop and improve in many different aspects is the only thing I’m worried about.”

The future for McCarthy is still up in the air, but he’s made it clear that he wants to be in Minnesota.