The Vikings selected McCarthy with the 10th overall pick in last year’s draft after the young signal-caller led his Michigan Wolverines to a National Championship. The then 21-year-old was on track to be the team’s next starting quarterback and heir apparent to Kirk Cousins before tearing his meniscus in his preseason debut last August.

There were murmurs as to whether the Vikings might look to retain Sam Darnold and trade McCarthy after posting a 14-3 record during what was supposed to be a down year. However, after a late-season decline in play from Darnold, and an ugly first-round exit from the playoffs, it would be a surprise if McCarthy wasn’t leading their QB room at the start of next season.

McCarthy’s rehab progress is positive news for dynasty owners who were let down after using a high pick on him during last year’s rookie drafts. With a supporting cast that features Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, TJ Hockenson, and Aaron Jones, McCarthy is in a prime situation for success, even if he shows rust or inexperience out of the gates. Put it this way- if Sam Darnold threw for 4,300 yards and 35 TDs en route to his first Pro-Bowl selection, then expectations for McCarthy should be even higher than they were going into last season.

Author: Blake Stachel (IG: Bllakkay)