The Vikings opened the 2025 preseason with a return that electrified their fanbase, as JJ McCarthy came back from a torn meniscus and showed off the speed and improvisational flair that made him a college star. McCarthy went 4 of 7 for 30 yards, logged an eight-yard scramble for a first down, and was quickly eased out for Sam Howell, who delivered six straight completions for 42 yards as Minnesota trimmed a 7-3 Texans lead to 7-6 early. Social buzz swirled around his return, including a fan’s sharp shot at Texans depth and the crowd’s energy fueling Howell’s rhythm. Off-field moments mattered too, as McCarthy connected with a hopeful fan and the team received an early update on Justin Jefferson, leaving fans pondering Week 1 implications. The night wasn’t a declaration, but it reinforced belief in McCarthy’s talent and Minnesota’s slide toward a potential starting role, while Howell’s surge hinted at the depth chart intrigue in a transition year for the Vikings.