Minnesota Vikings Great Cris Carter Gives Blunt & Honest Take On J.J. McCarthy's Current Play As Team's Quarterback

Minnesota Vikings great Cris Carter on why J.J. McCarthy still has a long way to go before he proves he's a true franchise quarterback.

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2025 December 21 . 4:49 AM

2 min read

This image consists of many persons wearing jerseys and helmets along with white shoes are playing... — This image consists of many persons wearing jerseys and helmets along with white shoes are playing american football. At the bottom, there is green grass. In the background, there are trees.

Minnesota Vikings Great Cris Carter Gives Blunt & Honest Take On J.J. McCarthy's Current Play As Team's Quarterback

The Minnesota Vikings took a gamble on J.J. McCarthy, drafting him 10th overall in 2024. After missing his rookie season due to injury, he finally made his debut in 2025. Now, questions remain about whether he can grow into a reliable starting quarterback.

McCarthy’s early career has been rocky. He didn’t play at all in his first year and had limited passing experience at Michigan, leaving scouts unsure about his skills. A high ankle sprain then sidelined him for five games, delaying his progress further.

Since returning, his performance has shown signs of improvement. The Vikings have won their last two matches under his leadership, suggesting some growth. However, Hall of Fame receiver Cris Carter, who played with many quarterbacks during his 16-year career, still sees McCarthy as a work in progress. Carter described him as a 'good athlete' but far from a finished product.

The Vikings’ offence has struggled this season compared to last year with Sam Darnold. Passing yards and scoring are down, and Carter believes the team doesn’t yet trust McCarthy to throw consistently. Meanwhile, McCarthy will continue developing while Carter prepares for his own event—the James Hardie Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational in Boca Raton, Florida, in March. The tournament includes 26 Hall of Famers and 78 PGA Tour professionals, competing for a $2.2 million prize. Last year’s winner was fellow Hall of Famer Tim Brown, with Ronde Barber among this year’s contenders.

McCarthy’s future with the Vikings remains uncertain. His recent wins offer some hope, but his passing game still needs refinement. The team will be watching closely to see if he can develop into the franchise quarterback they envisioned when drafting him.