What happened: The Vikings named their Week 1 starter Tuesday, ending the preseason competition. Minnesota selected J.J. McCarthy with the No. 10 pick in 2024.
Why it matters: The decision shifts a recent first-round investment into a reserve role before the 2026 opener. Minnesota now carries a former top-10 pick as insurance at quarterback.
By the numbers: Two days elapsed between Minnesota's Week 1 decision and McCarthy's readiness message.
What to watch: His preseason workload will show how the Vikings plan to develop him in the backup role.