SerpApi.Org
While it was previously thought that free-agency signing Kyler Murray was on track to eventually be named the Minnesota Vikings' starting quarterback over 2024 first-round draft pick J.J. McCarthy, recent updates have hinted that the competition for the gig could run through Minnesota's final game of the preseason.
During an appearance on the latest edition of the "This is Football with Kevin Clark" podcast, superstar Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson spoke about the Murray-McCarthy battle.
Justin Jefferson "for sure" expects this from Kyler Murray, J.J. McCarthy competition
According to Jonathan Harrison of Bring Me The Sports, Jefferson was asked if he believes the Vikings will hold a "true" quarterback competition this summer.
"Oh yeah, for sure," Jefferson responded. "...I feel like it’s going to be a great competition battle. I feel like it’s going to be great, one for J.J. to get that competition in that room. For him to have to step up his game a little bit and have to be that dog, and have to come to training camp every single day with that on his mind. Pretty much treating training camp like a game every single day. Just coming in and trying to make the most plays as possible, making right reads, being that leader that we need him to be."
A Monday report said that McCarthy will have "a chance to beat out the more accomplished Murray" if the former shows over the next month or so that he can play "faster and with more confidence." Jefferson noted that McCarthy "has been improving every single week." The wideout also insisted he is "excited" to see how McCarthy steps "up to the table when the competition battle is at its highest."
Justin Jefferson to Kyler Murray, J.J. McCarthy: It's all up for grabs
The Vikings will play preseason games at the New York Giants on Aug. 15, in Minnesota against the Baltimore Ravens on Aug. 22 and at the Denver Broncos on Aug. 28. Jefferson mentioned that "it's all up for grabs" regarding which quarterback will start the Week 1 game versus the rival Green Bay Packers on Sept. 13.
"And for [Kyler], it’s all about coming in and being that leader that we expect him to be," Jefferson added. "Obviously, with the things he’s already done in the league, we know he’s a playmaker. It’s just all about coming to this team with that leadership role that we really need to fill in. And I feel like it’s just going to be a great battle all in all. I’m excited to see the guys flying around and feeling the energy of those two guys going at it all training camp."
Veteran Vikings players are due to report for training camp on July 28. It will be interesting to see what Minnesota head coach Kevin O'Connell does and/or doesn't have to say about the quarterback competition around that time.
Want more articles like this? Follow Yardbarker on MSN to see more of our exclusive NFL content.
More must-reads:
- Alleged photo of Puka Nacua’s bite mark on woman suing him emerges
- ESPN analyst learned he was being laid off while live on TV
- Justin Jefferson sends message to Kyler Murray, J.J. McCarthy about QB competition
- Adam Schefter shares Aaron Donald return update that may concern Rams fans
- NFL analyst points to huge problem for John Harbaugh, Giants
