MINNEAPOLIS — The Vikings’ spring work began with Kyler Murray showing why he is viewed as the most talented quarterback on the roster, but it ended with signs he had bogged down while absorbing a complicated new offense during a period of reduced repetitions. Despite some struggles in minicamp, Murray entered training camp as the favorite to win the starting job, while incumbent J.J. McCarthy made clearer strides to steady a rocky 2025 campaign.
Murray’s arm talent was on display, including the ability to place difficult throws and vary speed and trajectory, while his top-level running ability was not showcased in the non-contact drills used during spring practices. Receiver Justin Jefferson said he understood the challenge Murray faced learning the offense, noting the defense’s varied coverages and disguises would help Murray once the season begins.
Murray appeared tentative at times, throwing consecutive interceptions on the first day of minicamp and another during a red-zone drill on the second day. On the same series after one of those interceptions, the Vikings ran the same concept and Murray delivered a touchdown to the same route. McCarthy, now entering his third season with the team, looked more in command than he did a year ago though he occasionally missed downfield.
Coach Kevin O’Connell said quarterback reps will be split at the start of training camp and pledged to be transparent about the evaluation process. Both quarterbacks are scheduled to play in preseason games. O’Connell acknowledged the competition could be decided quickly or could stretch as late as the third full week of camp, when Minnesota will host joint practices with the Baltimore Ravens on Aug. 19-20.
Off the field, McCarthy’s longer tenure helped him build stronger connections with teammates; he organized a group outing to a Minnesota Wild playoff game that Murray attended. Jefferson called Murray a “real cool guy, chill,” and said they “definitely talk on the sidelines” about what each is looking for. Running back Aaron Jones Sr. also spoke with both quarterbacks about maintaining a focused mindset during the competition.
