McCarthy's NFL debut sparked Minnesota's dramatic 27-24 comeback win in Chicago. After a slow start, the 22-year-old rookie rewired the offense in the second half, finishing 13 of 20 for 143 yards and accounting for three touchdowns in the fourth quarter—an unprecedented feat for a debuting QB. His leadership on the sideline and conviction during the rally energized the Vikings, who leaned on a stout defense and Jordan Mason’s late push on the ground.

Javon Hargrave recalled McCarthy telling the team, “he's got us,” at halftime, a moment echoed by Kevin O’Connell’s praise of the “unbelievable look” in his eyes. Jefferson connected on a late TD pass, and McCarthy capped the night with a 14-yard scoring run, proving Minnesota’s faith in him may be justified moving forward.

Minnesota opens the J.J. McCarthy era in Week 1 against Chicago, a high-stakes test for a quarterback change in a win-now roster. McCarthy’s Week 1 performance will shape immediate perceptions as the Vikings try to prove they chose him over Sam Darnold. Colin Cowherd’s measured, cautious take adds a narrative layer: progress could quiet the chatter, regress could magnify it.

Veteran backing matters here. Brian O’Neill’s early praise of McCarthy’s calm, but fiery presence in the huddle, signals trust from the locker room. Minnesota even hints at a QB contingency with Max Brosmer in the mix. If McCarthy shines, the noise subsides; a shaky debut could ignite debate about the front office move and the QB timeline.

Chicago’s Week 1 assignment looms large as the Bears’ defense tests McCarthy’s poise. The dynamic hinges on McCarthy’s decision-making, efficiency, and ability to leverage playmakers. The narrative blends: McCarthy’s growth, the Bears’ resistance, and the potential for Brosmer to emerge as a future mid/late-season option. Fantasy managers will be watching the first read, the ball placement, and any signs of offensive rhythm.

Minnesota named eight captains for 2025: Justin Jefferson, J.J. McCarthy, Aaron Jones, Brian O’Neill on offense; Harrison Smith, Josh Metellus, Jonathan Greenard on defense; Andrew DePaola on special teams.

Jefferson remains the offense’s centerpiece, while McCarthy earns the captain patch in his first year as starter. O’Neill anchors the line, Jones provides steady backfield value, and the defensive leaders—Smith, Metellus, Greenard—shape the defense. DePaola’s return as specials captain adds stability on special teams.

For fantasy managers, this paints a portrait of stability and clear roles. Jefferson’s target ceiling stays high, McCarthy’s leadership could translate to efficiency, and Jones should keep a large share of backfield touches. Defensive captains may reduce big plays, while DePaola’s snap cadence could influence field-position dynamics.

Two teams, two practices, one loud day at the TCO Performance Center as Minnesota and New England mixed energy with discipline. Mack Hollins punctuated the mood by sending a TD punt into the stands, a move that sparked the crowd without spiraling into trouble. Donovan Jackson’s downfield blocks fueled a standout sequence in the move-the-ball drill, highlighted by Aaron Jones breaking through the first level with help along the way. Minnesota plans to re-check Justin Jefferson’s workload after a mild hamstring issue, while Rondale Moore’s season-ending injury looms large, prompting Isaiah Rodgers to re-enter punt return rotation. Several Vikings veterans rested while Christian Darrisaw returned from ACL/MCL rehab, signaling progress toward a hopeful Week 1 status. The day included a late cherry: Jay Ward’s interception return in the two-minute drill, capping a competitive but controlled session. Off the field, Brian Asamoah II’s waiver to the Titans underscored the ongoing roster churn as teams ready for the next preseason tilt against the Patriots.