Minnesota Vikings make important decision regarding J.J. McCarthy’s NFL future
There was a lot of speculation about the future of J.J. McCarthy with the Minnesota Vikings, and it’s set for now.
There was some speculation surrounding the future of Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy. Many people, including myself, were talking about a potential trade for McCarthy ahead of cut down day. At least initially, McCarthy will be on the 53-man roster.
Minnesota Vikings are keeping J.J. McCarthy on 53-man roster
For now, the speculation of McCarthy’s future is on pause. He is on the 53-man roster, which for some means he will be on the team in Week 1. Ultimately, that’s not what happens for everyone.
Where things get really interesting is with what happens after cut down day. Teams will set their initial rosters to reflect players who are going to be with the team long-term, but they also have a few players they keep initially to avoid exposing them to waivers.
While only around a dozen or so players get claimed after initial roster cuts, it is a genuine fear for teams. In 2007, the Kansas City Chiefs were so impressed with seventh-round pick quarterback Tyler Thigpen in joint practices that they claimed him after cuts happened.
Where does this leave McCarthy? Simply put: he is going to be on the roster, but may not stay there. The Vikings won’t give him away for just anything. If they do trade him, it will be for something of substance.
What does substance consist of? That will depend on who you ask. The likely price the Vikings will be happy with something around a fourth or fifth round pick. Cutting him is off the table, and should be. If you move off him, try to get a team to absorb some of the contract.
General manager Nolan Teasley is going to continue putting his stamp on the 53-man roster, and what happens with McCarthy will do a lot to show his direction and strategy.
