What happened: ESPN’s Adam Schefter said Minnesota made the decision Tuesday after a summer quarterback competition. McCarthy, 23, missed his entire rookie season with an injury before making 10 starts in 2025.
Why it matters: Murray is set to become Minnesota’s fourth different Week 1 starter in four seasons. The move changes the development path for McCarthy, who dismissed trade rumors in June.
By the numbers: McCarthy has 10 career starts, with the Vikings posting a 6-4 record in those games—a .600 winning percentage.
What to watch: Preseason rep distribution will clarify how Minnesota divides work between Murray and McCarthy before Week 1.