The Minnesota Vikings remain concerned about quarterback J.J. McCarthy\'s accuracy issues through five starts, with the team\'s dual goals of competing for championships and developing a young quarterback now conflicting, according to ESPN\'s Jeremy Fowler and Dan Graziano. McCarthy\'s erratic throwing is affecting the entire offense as balls continue to sail high.
The Vikings still believe in McCarthy\'s work ethic and skill set despite the struggles. Head coach Kevin O\'Connell said Monday that McCarthy is \"made of the right stuff,\" but the team has limited alternatives after Carson Wentz underwent season-ending shoulder surgery.
A scout from another team told Graziano that McCarthy is \"throwing at only one speed -- all fastballs,\" attributing the issue to the rookie trying to be the hero. The Vikings have no choice but to work through McCarthy\'s growing pains, with undrafted free agent Max Brosmer the only backup option.
\"The accuracy is a concern. There\'s no hiding from that,\" Fowler said. \"Balls are sailing, and that affects the entire offense. McCarthy needs to hit the layups.\"
Frustration is visible among offensive players, with Justin Jefferson recently slamming his helmet on the sideline. The Vikings worry about keeping the team together during McCarthy\'s development period.
Minnesota leads the NFL with a $344.9 million payroll, building a championship roster around McCarthy\'s rookie contract. The strategy requires the young quarterback to show progress, which has not materialized through five starts.
The Vikings could have rostered Sam Darnold, Daniel Jones or Aaron Rodgers, who are a combined 21-9 this season. Minnesota\'s offseason quarterback plan will reveal the organization\'s true confidence level in McCarthy.
The team has seven regular-season games remaining for McCarthy to demonstrate improvement before potential offseason changes.
