Kevin O’Connell had the chance to bring Aaron Rodgers to Minnesota. He didn’t take it. Instead, the Vikings head coach made a choice that raised eyebrows across the NFL, choosing to roll with 22-year-old JJ McCarthy over the four-time MVP quarterback.
While Rodgers recently landed with the Pittsburgh Steelers, reports had swirled for months suggesting the 41-year-old had his sights set on the Vikings. But O’Connell decided to keep his eyes on the long-term future, not the short-term splash.
O’Connell spoke with Rodgers earlier this offseason and discussed the possibility of teaming up. However, during an interview with Minneapolis radio station KFAN-FM 100.3, the coach revealed that he never wavered in his decision to move forward with McCarthy.
“When there was an opportunity, when him and I connected this offseason just to kind of talk about what that would look like, we had a lot of great dialogue about it,” O’Connell said. “But it always was centered around what was best not only for the present in the Minnesota Vikings organization, but the future.”
O’Connell confidently backed McCarthy, clarifying that the second-year quarterback had earned his shot. “I was very honest about my feelings toward JJ,” he said. “My obligation that I felt like we were going to give him the best possible situation to begin and thrive on this NFL journey and let’s see where it goes.”
Rodgers had star power, but O’Connell stayed firm, choosing long-term vision over sentiment or short-term gain. “I still talk to him, and the next time I do, it’ll be the same old, same old,” O’Connell said. “He’s different than people probably think, but that’s just part of it these days.”
After leading the Vikings to a 14-3 record last season, Sam Darnold left for Seattle on a three-year, $100.5 million deal. That move opened the door for McCarthy, who the Vikings drafted tenth overall in 2024.
“He’s having a great spring,” O’Connell said of his new starter. “He’s healthy, strong, throwing the ball great, fundamentals — everything you hope for in the spring.”
By passing on Rodgers, O’Connell made his vision clear. He’s not chasing a quick fix—he’s building something that lasts.
