Vikings name Kyler Murray starting QB over J.J. McCarthy

Key Points:

• The Minnesota Vikings have officially named Kyler Murray as their starting quarterback, confirming expectations despite some inconsistent practices during the competition.
• Murray, who signed a one-year, $1.3 million deal after being released by the Arizona Cardinals, will push 2024 first-round pick J.J. McCarthy to the backup role, raising questions about McCarthy's future with the team.
• Coach Kevin O'Connell praised Murray's skillset, intelligence, and work ethic, emphasizing the desire to give him time to build comfort with the offense before the regular season starts on September 13.
• Both Murray and McCarthy are expected to play in the upcoming preseason game, with O'Connell affirming McCarthy still has a future with the Vikings despite losing the starting job.
• Murray's opportunity comes with a contract clause preventing the Vikings from franchise tagging him in 2027, potentially allowing him to enter free agency, while McCarthy faces an uphill battle to regain the starting position.