Analyst who suggested J.J. McCarthy needs competition brings an option to light

David Reginek-Imagn ImagesWith four losses in their last five games and a 4-6 record that has them two games back of the rest of the NFC North, the focus of the rest of the 2025 season for the Minnesota Vikings is clear.

J.J. McCarthy, health-permitting, with have 12 starts on his resume when the season is over, barring a surprising run at a playoff berth. While that still won't truly be enough to draw big conclusions about his career track, he needs to show signs of progress.

If he doesn't, the Vikings will be left to evaluate what to do at the most important position on the field. The idea of adding legitimate competition for McCarthy during the offseason will easily percolate, and there…