J.J. McCarthy on first practice with Vikings: ‘It didn’t feel like my first day’

This past weekend, JJ McCarthy participated in his first official practice with the Minnesota Vikings. When a reporter asked McCarthy how he felt it went, the rookie quarterback didn’t hesitate to speak his mind.

“It was simple because it didn’t feel like my first day,” McCarthy said. “I’ve been going over the offense for a long time now, so being able to go out there and actually be able to perform and execute it, that’s new. But, it was nothing that was overwhelming or too much.”

It’s no surprise to see the former Michigan standout oozing confidence. After all, the Minnesota Vikings traded up in the 2024 NFL Draft to select him with the No. 10 overall pick. His time in college only amplified McCarthy’s belief in himself.

In the 2023 campaign at Michigan, McCarthy started all 15 games, tallying 2,991 passing yards with 22 touchdowns and four interceptions. The 6-foot-3 junior also compiled 202 yards and three scores on the ground.

Fueled by McCarthy’s excellent play behind center, Michigan reeled in its first national title since 1997. For his efforts, McCarthy was named the Griese-Brees Big Ten Quarterback of the Year and a Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award finalist.

Minnesota Vikings head coach excited by JJ McCarthy

McCarthy has won time and time again, and it’s due to his attention to detail. Ahead of his first practice with the team, McCarthy reportedly got on the field early to go over plays with the team.

After the practice, Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell discussed his young quarterback’s initiative.

“He’s trying to have the best possible day that he can today and then try to do the same thing tomorrow,” O’Connell said. “This guy is a process-driven guy and understands that there’s a long road ahead of him.

“We’re just trying to make incremental gains that will be solidified as part of how he plays quarterback for a long time. So, I’ve been really impressed with him so far.”

Obviously, McCarthy’s work ethic is paying dividends. Not only is the former Michigan standout receiving reps at practice, but the coaches are cooking up specific challenges just for him.

“Stacking some things together for him,” O’Connell said. “This weekend is really about preparing him to step in with the full group next week and then a week from there we start our first OTA with the whole group. He’s doing a great job of handling everything and just enjoying seeing the process.”