J.J. McCarthy surged in Week 1, delivering three fourth-quarter TDs to spark Minnesota’s comeback against Chicago. Two came via passes (to Jefferson and Nailor) and one on a late keeper as he finished with 143 passing yards and 25 rushing yards. He became the first rookie to three TDs in the fourth in his NFL debut, lifting confidence for fantasy managers despite a rocky start. With Cousins gone and Darnold mentoring, the rookie’s late-game rhythm could reshape Viking QB chaos into weekly streaming upside.

Jefferson repurposed as a focal connection, Nailor chipped in, and McCarthy’s ground game adds rushing-upside that boosts his fantasy floor. Darnold’s presence adds veteran stability behind the scenes, while Bears’ defense remains volatile. Week 2 will test whether the late burst was a true trend or a one-off, but the Vikings’ rookie is now squarely on the fantasy radar.