The 2025 Minnesota Vikings hit the field for the first time this passed Saturday, with all eyes on the storyline most fans were following all offseason long.
Second year quarterback J.J. McCarthy made the start, and hoped to avoid the disaster that came from last years preseason debut with the team when he injured his knee against the Las Vegas Raiders.
To balance both the gamble of reinjury and getting McCarthy some reps, the Vikings settled for playing McCarthy a series, and McCarthy made the most of it, leading the Vikings to a 13 play drive ending in a field goal.
McCarthy finished his playing time going 4 for 7 for 30 yards, and carrying the ball 1 time for 8 yards.
McCarthy looked good by the eye test, he made completions to continue drives, also showing his placement with a couple of outside the body passes that were completed to wide receiver Jordan Addison, which would eventually lead to an opening drive field goal for the team. McCarthy showcased his secret weapon against NFL defenses for the upcoming season, his legs. McCarthy showed his ability to escape the pocket and take advantage of open running lanes to get a first down, a weapon McCarthy wants to keep under wraps. (Sorry J.J.)
The Vikings would go on to defeat the Texans 20-10, a good start for a team that was bounced early in last years playoffs after going 14-3 in the regular season. The Vikings will remain at home for their second preseason game where they will host the New England Patriots, the former team of current Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell. The team will also hold some joint practices with New England throughout this week.
Photo Credit: the NFL, Minnesota Vikings
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