The Minnesota Vikings handed the offense to JJ McCarthy and his first real NFL showcase in practice vs. New England provided a strong signal-to-signal for fantasy managers. McCarthy went 14-of-16 in 11-on-11 work, throwing five touchdowns in tight red-zone and full-field periods, per Boston Herald's Andrew Callahan. The Patriots’ first-team defense limited big mistakes but McCarthy delivered on-time dimes, flashing poise beyond his years. The session came as Justin Jefferson was sidelined with a hamstring issue, yet McCarthy found rhythm with TJ Hockenson and Jordan Addison, and even mixed in early chemistry with Addison as the rookie connected for multiple scores.

Helping the rookie’s case was the surrounding cast: Hockenson and Addison provided reliable targets, while Christian Barmore, Milton Williams, Keion White, and Christian Gonzalez provided a stiff test for Minnesota’s offense. Minnesota's plan to rest McCarthy this weekend aligns with Week 1’s anticipated clash with the Chicago Bears, giving the young passer time to build timing with Addison, Hockenson, and Jefferson’s return. The overall takeaway: McCarthy’s message to the doubters is clear—poise, command, and a path to meaningful fantasy upside as the Vikings’ offense evolves around him. Thursday’s practice wasn’t just a win for a day; it was a blueprint for Minnesota’s envisioned future.