The Minnesota Vikings’ quarterback competition concluded with the team naming Kyler Murray as the starter for the 2026 season, and backup J.J. McCarthy says he still believes he is a starter in the NFL.
In his first public remarks after the decision, McCarthy told reporters he retains confidence in his ability and will focus on preparation and supporting the team. He described the choice as beyond his control and said he was “obviously disappointed,” but emphasized moving forward to the next practice and rep.
"Yes, I believe so,"
McCarthy’s succinct affirmation that he sees himself as a starter amounted to the clearest statement yet about his long-term outlook in Minnesota, even as he transitions to a backup role for the immediate future.
Focus on controllables, readiness and development
Throughout his remarks, McCarthy repeatedly returned to the theme of control. He acknowledged the coaching staff made a decision he could not influence and said the proper response is to continue working and stay prepared for opportunity. He stressed the importance of being ready when his number is called.
- Confidence: McCarthy said he will always have confidence in himself and in his ability to be a starter.
- Disappointment: He acknowledged feeling "obviously disappointed" about the outcome.
- Preparation: McCarthy said his focus is on the next practice, the next rep and staying ready for when he is needed.
He also reflected on his personal growth, saying he is proud of his development and expects to continue improving in multiple areas. McCarthy reiterated his commitment to the team and his affection for the organization, the state and the fan base.
Implications for the roster and McCarthy’s future
McCarthy framed his current assignment not as the end of a competition but as a stage in a longer process of development. Asked whether he believes he can become the starter for Minnesota again, he pointed to his desire to remain with the team and to continue earning opportunities by working hard.
He declined to dwell on whether he received a fair chance to win the job during the competition, saying he focused on opportunities as they came. To reporters, he repeatedly noted that his mindset will be unchanged going forward: keep working, keep developing and be ready.
| McCarthy remarks | Plain language takeaway |
|---|---|
| "Yes, I believe so." | Still sees himself as a future NFL starter. |
| "Decision was made that was out of my control... every competitor wants to play." | Acknowledges staff made the choice; accepts competitive disappointment. |
| "I'm really proud of my development... I'm gonna keep my head down and keep working." | Committed to continued growth and preparation. |
For the Vikings, the resolution of the quarterback competition settles an immediate question about who will take the first snaps for the franchise in 2026. For McCarthy, the shift to a backup role leaves open several potential paths: sustained development in a supporting role, an eventual return to a starting job in Minnesota, or future opportunities elsewhere. In his remarks he emphasized neither grievance nor resignation, but readiness.
The immediate horizon for McCarthy, he said, is straightforward: contribute to the team, prepare for the next game against the Giants and keep developing the skills that earned him a place on the roster.
Those comments underline the dual nature of roster transitions in the NFL: a single decision reshapes roles for the present while the players involved continue to chart longer-term careers shaped by preparation, opportunity and continued performance.
