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J.J. McCarthy, selected by the Minnesota Vikings with the 10th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, made his NFL preseason debut on Saturday against the Las Vegas Raiders. Despite some early struggles, the rookie quarterback from the University of Michigan showcased flashes of the potential that made him a first-round pick.
J.J. McCarthy’s Vikings Debut: Here are five key observations from his first game as an NFL rookie.
1). Rocky Start, Strong And Promising Finish
McCarthy’s debut got off to a rocky start when, after a promising 18-yard completion to Jalen Nailor, he threw an interception on his second drive. Attempting to evade pressure, McCarthy rolled to his right but threw the ball behind his intended target, Trishton Jackson. The pass was undercut by Raiders cornerback Jack Jones, who intercepted it. This was a clear reminder of the precision needed at the NFL level. Despite the setback, McCarthy didn’t let the mistake define his performance, showing resilience as he continued to play aggressively and effectively.
2). Arm Talent on Display
Even with the early turnover, McCarthy's arm talent was evident throughout the game. He opened his day with an 18-yard dart to Jalen Nailor, showcasing his ability to fit the ball into tight windows. Later, he delivered a perfectly placed 21-yard pass between the corner and safety to Trishton Jackson, followed by a deep 45-yard touchdown strike to Jackson again. These throws illustrated the type of arm strength and accuracy that scouts raved about during the draft process.
3). Mobility and Pocket Presence
McCarthy also displayed his mobility, adding 18 rushing yards on two scrambles. His ability to escape pressure and extend plays with his legs is a significant asset. On several occasions, McCarthy moved out of the pocket to avoid oncoming rushers, showing a natural sense for pressure and an ability to make plays on the move. This dual-threat capability will make him a versatile weapon in the Vikings' offense.
4). Learning Moments
While McCarthy had a strong showing, there were moments that highlighted areas for improvement. Beyond the interception, he had a few missed throws and questionable decisions under pressure. These moments are typical for a rookie, and how McCarthy adjusts and learns from them will be critical to his development. As head coach Kevin O’Connell mentioned, “I loved seeing him come right back after the interception and still be aggressive” (Sports Illustrated).
5). High Upside and Future Potential
McCarthy’s debut, with 188 passing yards and two touchdowns, showed why the Vikings invested a first-round pick in him. His performance in the third quarter, where he connected on two long touchdown passes, underscored his explosive potential. After the game, McCarthy reflected on his ability to bounce back, saying, "In this league, things are going to go bad, and it's your ability to respond and navigate those waters when it does happen". With more reps and experience, McCarthy has the tools to develop into a franchise quarterback for Minnesota.