The Minnesota Vikings have decided on their starting quarterback, with Kyler Murray winning the QB1 role over JJ McCarthy.
The decision was confirmed on Tuesday by head coach Kevin O’Connell, though it was not exactly surprising, with Murray largely viewed as having the edge in his QB battle against McCarthy.
But just because he lost the battle against Murray, it does not mean that the former Michigan Wolverines star quarterback will take his foot off the pedal. McCarthy plans to stay locked in because no one knows when his number will be called.
On Wednesday, McCarthy talked to reporters for the first time since losing the main QB gig to Murray, opening up about what’s next for him.
“Obviously, every competitor wants to play,” McCarthy said, via Kevin Seifert of ESPN. “But moving forward, it’s just about continuing to work hard and just staying ready for when my number’s called.”
Even after winning the QB battle, Murray still has to be on his toes and prove to the Vikings that he is indeed the right choice. If Minnesota struggles with the former No. 1 pick overall, the Vikings might end up going with McCarthy again as the starter.
McCarthy also said he still wants to stick with the Vikings as he awaits an opportunity to help the team on the field, whenever that may be.
“This is the place I want to be,” McCarthy added. “And I love every single person in this building. I love the state. I love the fanbase. And I’m going to continue to just do whatever I can for this team and this organization.”
