J.J. McCarthy

The Athletic’s Alec Lewis reports Vikings coaches want to “take it slow” with QB J.J. McCarthy in 2024.

Lewis said McCarthy was much more accurate during Thursday’s practice than he had been early in the week, when he missed several routine throws while working on new footwork. The Vikings, Lewis said, want to “help him develop confidence. To allow him to try throws, make mistakes and learn. Head coach Kevin O’Connell and his staff believe that’s the best path to long-term success, and everyone seems on board.” Sam Darnold, meanwhile, has taken all the first-team reps on OTAs and demonstrated good chemistry with Jordan Addison and Justin Jefferson, Lewis said. Darnold is on track to start Week 1 for Minnesota barring an outstanding training camp and preseason from McCarthy.