What happened: Minnesota named Kyler Murray its Week 1 starter after the preseason competition. McCarthy now moves into a reserve role as the Vikings weigh their quarterback depth.
Why it matters: A deal at the proposed price would turn a top-10 investment into Day 3 compensation two years later. Keeping McCarthy would preserve a cost-controlled backup behind Murray.
By the numbers: McCarthy started 10 games in 2025, completing less than 58% of his passes with 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.
What to watch: Watch McCarthy's preseason workload and whether Minnesota fields offers before final roster cuts.