The Minnesota Vikings have made a significant move in their team’s future by selecting JJ McCarthy in the NFL draft, marking one of the highest draft positions for a quarterback in the franchise’s history. However, despite the high expectations and considerable investment in McCarthy, he might not start the season as the team’s lead quarterback.

During a recent appearance on a local Minnesota radio show, Vikings reporter Ben Goessling shared insights suggesting that the chance of McCarthy starting Week 1 is only about 10%. This cautious approach is backed by Vikings’ head coach Kevin O’Connell, who reportedly believes in giving rookies adequate time to develop before thrusting them into high-pressure roles. “Kevin O’Connell does not want rookies on the field in this spot before they’re ready,” Goessling noted, adding that “these guys are going to be better off with time to learn.”

This strategy reflects a broader trend observed in the NFL where immediate success for rookie quarterbacks, although not unheard of, is not the norm. The Houston Texans’ recent experience with C.J. Stroud in the 2023 season, who helped propel the team to playoff contention, is a testament to the potential success of playing rookies early. However, for every Stroud, there’s a counterexample like Bryce Young of the Carolina Panthers, who didn’t have as impactful a rookie season.

The Vikings seem to be taking a measured approach with McCarthy, potentially using the 2023 season as a period for him to learn and gradually adapt to the professional level without the immediate pressures of leading the team. This strategy might be prudent, considering the varying outcomes of rookie quarterbacks thrust early into starting roles across the league.

Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how McCarthy’s transition from college to the NFL unfolds, and whether the Vikings’ cautious approach pays dividends in grooming him to be the franchise quarterback they envision.