Ex-NFL scout discusses potential J.J. McCarthy to Browns trade in 2025 amid Sam Darnold's resurgence with Vikings (Credits: Getty)
After Kirk Cousins' exit in the 2024 offseason, the Minnesota Vikings spent the tenth overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft on Michigan Wolverines star J.J. McCarthy and earmarked him as the team's starting quarterback. However, tragedy struck in his preseason debut against the Las Vegas Raiders as he suffered a knee injury, which was later diagnosed as a torn meniscus, costing him his entire rookie season.
With McCarthy out for the year, the Vikings deferred to veteran Sam Darnold and the quarterback repaid the team's faith in him by having the best season of his career. Through Week 17, he has 4,153 passing yards, 35 touchdowns, 12 interceptions, 202 rushing yards and one rushing touchdown. Minnesota is 14-2 and can start the playoffs as the No.1 seed in the NFC.
The Vikings are reportedly considering handing Darnold a new contract extension to retain him as the team's starting quarterback. However, that leaves McCarthy in a limbo. With Darnold being only 27, the former Wolverines star could be a backup for years. Some have suggested that Minnesota should consider trading to a quarterback-needy team, like the Cleveland Browns, and commit to Darnold.
