The Vikings’ quarterback competition between Kyler Murray and J.J. McCarthy is about to heat up.
Head coach Kevin O’Connell told reporters in his Tuesday press conference that Murray and McCarthy will each take reps with the club’s first-team and second-team offense to begin training camp. O’Connell also noted that Minnesota has a date in mind to choose the QB1, though he did not disclose it.
“I met with all those guys, really, on an individual basis over the last day or so. And really, just want to be able to articulate the vision and the plan,” O’Connell said. “I feel very good about our plan. Both Kyler and J.J. will take reps with the first team. They’ll also take reps with the second group, and I think that gives different layers to the evaluation as well.
“We want an elevator at the quarterback position. And in many ways, doing that in this system is kind of a ‘do-your-job mentality,’ which is running the show, throwing completions, and just showing the ability to execute our offense with comfort. That offense is an evolving thing, and we’re excited about what this year’s offense could look like. But we do want to be thorough, we want to be comprehensive with this. But at the same time, I think it’s important, when we feel good about a decision as a group and we’re ready to move forward, it’ll be good to do that so we can prepare that player for the season.”
O’Connell mentioned being “transparent” about the decision, which the club plans to announce when one has been made. But the process could take a little time.
“I think there’s an ideal date based upon training camp to make sure we check a lot of boxes for our team, but also for not only that player, but our entire offense,” O’Connell said. “So, yeah, there’s absolutely a date in mind — subject to what we think is best. If we feel like we can make the decision before that date, we will. If we feel like we need a little bit more time, we’ll take it.
“And, ultimately, a lot of work’s been done to this point, been evaluated — both on the field, where we think guys are at from their understanding and comfort of our offense. And now, we can apply it and really try to push this thing to the point where I think it’s going to enhance both players. And I think it’s going to give us clarity on where we need to go for this year.”
