QB: J. J. McCarthy - MIN

2024 Season Summary

• Missed entire rookie season after tearing his meniscus during the 2024 preseason

• Underwent season-ending surgery, becoming the first first-round quarterback to miss the full year

• Sam Darnold started in his place, leading the Vikings to a 14–3 record and finishing as QB9 in fantasy — highlighting the effectiveness of Kevin O’Connell’s offensive system

• McCarthy flashed in limited preseason action: 11 of 17 for 188 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 1 interception

  
  

Key Takeaway

There is no regular-season NFL tape, but the combination of first-round pedigree and full coaching support signals readiness for 2025.

2025 Fantasy Football Outlook

1. Health & Readiness

• Fully recovered from knee surgery, reportedly “stronger than ever”

• Took first-team reps all offseason

• Kevin O’Connell and the organization are fully behind him, choosing McCarthy over a potential reunion with Aaron Rodgers

2. Supporting Cast

• Offensive upgrades include two new starters on the offensive line and rookie WR Tai Felton

• Justin Jefferson returns (1,533 yards, 10 touchdowns in 2024)

• Jordan Addison and T.J. Hockenson round out one of the NFL’s most complete pass-catching groups

3. Offensive Scheme

• Kevin O’Connell’s system continues to emphasize the passing game

• In 2024, the Vikings ranked 8th in neutral pass rate and 3rd in pass rate over expectation

• Sam Darnold’s QB9 finish shows the fantasy ceiling available to whoever starts in this system

Headliners Take

J.J. McCarthy enters 2025 as a high-upside fantasy QB2, backed by elite weapons and a pass-heavy scheme. His situation is almost ideal: strong coaching, a fortified offensive line, and a trio of top-tier targets.

That said, he’s also a complete unknown at the NFL level after missing his entire rookie season. Turnovers, rookie inconsistency, and speed-of-play adjustment all carry risk. But if he hits early, he could quickly become a weekly QB1 streamer or breakout star.

In redraft leagues, McCarthy is best drafted as a late-round QB2 with massive upside — especially appealing in Superflex formats or as a high-ceiling stash behind a safer QB1.