Vikings’ JJ McCarthy Sparks Trade Buzz After Viral Sideline Appearance

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — J.J. McCarthy, the Minnesota Vikings‘ rookie quarterback, found himself in the spotlight during a 31-9 loss to the Detroit Lions last weekend, not for his play but for his striking new appearance. McCarthy, sidelined for the entire 2024 season due to a torn meniscus suffered in the preseason, went viral for his long, flowing hair, drawing comparisons to Star Wars‘ Anakin Skywalker.

The 10th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, McCarthy has yet to take a snap in the NFL. His absence opened the door for Sam Darnold, who led the Vikings to a 14-3 record, the second-best regular season in franchise history. Darnold’s success has sparked speculation about McCarthy’s future with the team, especially if Darnold secures a contract extension this offseason.

“Many draft experts believe McCarthy would have been the top overall pick if he were in this year’s draft,” reported Michigan media outlets. With his high draft capital and potential, several NFL teams are reportedly interested in acquiring McCarthy, should the Vikings decide to trade him.

McCarthy’s viral moment came during Week 18’s “Sunday Night Football” broadcast, where fans noticed his dramatic hair transformation. Social media erupted with comparisons to Anakin Skywalker, with one user tweeting, “Vikings rookie QB J.J. McCarthy has gone viral for looking nearly identical to Anakin Skywalker.”

While McCarthy hasn’t commented on his new look, his sideline presence has kept him in the public eye. The rookie underwent meniscus surgery in August and a follow-up procedure in November to address swelling. Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell confirmed in November that McCarthy was “on the original timeline, in good shape.”

As the Vikings prepare for their wild-card playoff game, McCarthy remains focused on rehabbing his knee. Minnesota beat reporter Darren Wolfson noted on Jan. 9 that McCarthy is “doing well,” though his availability for offseason activities remains uncertain.

With Darnold’s emergence and McCarthy’s untapped potential, the Vikings face a pivotal decision about their quarterback future. Whether McCarthy stays in Minnesota or moves to a new team, his journey is far from over.