Aaron Jones Breaks Silence on JJ McCarthy as Vikings QB Drama Heats Up Amid Rodgers Rumors
The Minnesota Vikings have had no shortage of quarterback drama over the past year, and things just got even more interesting. With veteran running back Aaron Jones now in the fold, the spotlight is squarely on rookie quarterback JJ McCarthy—especially as whispers continue to swirl around a potential reunion with Aaron Rodgers.
Last season brought an unexpected twist for the Vikings when journeyman QB Sam Darnold—fresh off a backup role with the 49ers—shocked the league with a career resurgence. Signed to a modest one-year deal, Darnold delivered Pro Bowl-caliber performances, completing 66.2% of his passes for 4,319 yards, 35 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. He posted a stellar 102.5 passer rating and turned skeptics into believers.
However, the long-term plan always seemed to revolve around McCarthy, whom the Vikings selected with the No. 10 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. The former Michigan standout was viewed as the natural successor to Kirk Cousins, who left the team in free agency. Hopes were sky-high—until a devastating ACL tear in training camp sidelined McCarthy before he could take a single NFL snap.
With McCarthy sidelined, Darnold seized his opportunity. But his red-hot season didn’t lead to a long-term stay in Minnesota. Instead, he cashed in during free agency and signed with the Seattle Seahawks, leaving the Vikings with a massive question mark at quarterback yet again.
Now, as McCarthy continues his recovery, Aaron Jones—who joined the Vikings this offseason after a storied run with the Green Bay Packers—is speaking out. The former Pro Bowler praised McCarthy’s poise and work ethic, saying, “JJ’s got that quiet fire. You can tell he wants to prove something. He’s locked in. I’ve seen that same look before—in Green Bay.”
That comment alone has set off a new wave of speculation. Could Jones be hinting at another potential Rodgers reunion? The two shared years of success in Green Bay, and with Rodgers possibly on the move again, the rumor mill is churning at full speed.
One thing is certain: The Vikings’ quarterback room is once again the center of attention. Whether McCarthy becomes the face of the franchise or another twist awaits, Aaron Jones has made it clear—he sees something special brewing in Minnesota.