MINNEAPOLIS — J.J. McCarthy‘s first drive in a preseason game delivered the play-action pass essence of the Vikings’ offensive strategy, with the second-year quarterback faking a handoff and firing an out route to Jordan Addison for a diving catch. Coach Kevin O’Connell expressed satisfaction with McCarthy’s poise and composure in running the offense, marking a positive step forward.
McCarthy showed composure running the offense, a key sign for the Vikings’ season.
- J.J. McCarthy demonstrated poise and effective play-calling during his preseason debut.
- Running back Zavier Scott impressed with his vision and earned significant trust from coaches.
- Kicker Will Reichard continued his strong performance, making multiple field goals.
- Concerns remain regarding receiver depth behind the top three options.
- Cornerback Mekhi Blackmon appears to be behind other players in the cornerback rotation.
McCarthy’s performance was a critical checkpoint for the Vikings, especially after suffering a meniscus tear in a similar situation a year ago. The quarterback admitted to a moment of emotion during the national anthem, a stark contrast to the previous year’s setback.
“Had a little tear drop, not going to lie,” McCarthy said. “This game is the best game in the world. To be out there with this kind of group, and this coaching staff, was absolutely terrific.”
His final stat line of 4-for-7 with 30 yards indicated room for improvement, particularly in accuracy, but O’Connell noted he avoided high-risk throws.
Taking it himself!@jjmccarthy09
📺: @FOX9 | @NFLNetwork pic.twitter.com/jK0mudQsSA
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) August 9, 2025
Risers
Table of Contents
Zavier Scott
Running back Zavier Scott, an undrafted player from 2023, generated early training camp buzz. He was a focal point of the Vikings’ third drive, displaying strong running and a 11-yard screen catch. Scott finished with 40 yards and a touchdown on seven carries, with the trust shown by coaches evident in his consistent workload.
Sam Howell
An AFC evaluator described Howell as “more of a gamer.” After a shaky start to training camp, Howell was efficient, completing 11 of 13 passes for 105 yards. Receivers, particularly Lucky Jackson, aided his performance with key catches.
Max Brosmer
Coach O’Connell has praised Brosmer’s intelligence, making him a target as an undrafted free agent from the Minnesota Golden Gophers. Brosmer, who has held his own against other quarterbacks in camp, showed progression on third downs and in the red zone. He completed three of six passes for 26 yards and a touchdown.
Will Reichard
As the Vikings’ planned long-term kicker, Reichard started his rookie season strong but faced challenges after a quad injury. Following some misses in early camp, he drilled six field goals on Monday night and continued to impress on Saturday, showing an upward trend.
Fallers
Receiver Depth
The Vikings’ receiver depth behind Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, and Jalen Nailor remains a concern. Rondale Moore suffered a significant leg injury on a punt return. Tim Jones was flagged twice on special teams, and while Lucky Jackson made a couple of catches, the overall unproven nature of the group, including rookie Silas Bolden as a returner, raises questions.
Mekhi Blackmon
Despite leading the defense with five tackles, Mekhi Blackmon saw significant snaps with the second-team defense. With veteran starters like Byron Murphy Jr. sitting out and Isaiah Rodgers and Jeff Okudah featured, Blackmon appears to be behind in the cornerback hierarchy.
Edge Rushers
With established talents like Jonathan Greenard, Andrew Van Ginkel, and Dallas Turner, the edge rusher group is strong. However, backups Gabriel Murphy and Bo Richter stood out. Murphy recorded 1.5 sacks and four quarterback pressures, while Richter added 0.5 sacks. Their explosiveness makes them intriguing prospects.
