NFL Draft pundit views Minnesota Vikings rookie as massive impact player in 2024

The 2024 NFL Draft class for the Minnesota Vikings is going to be pivotal in potentially helping them get over the Super Bowl hump in the next five years. Not only did they get their quarterback of the future in J.J. McCarthy but a talented edge rusher in Dallas Turner who perfectly fits what defensive coordinator Brian Flores wants to do.

Who is going to be the most impactful? Pro Football Network draft analyst Ian Cummings believes it will be McCarthy and it doesn't have to include him starting immediately.

Even if J.J. McCarthy doesn’t start right away, the success of the Minnesota Vikings’ 2024 NFL Draft class hinges greatly on his eventual development. The assumption is that, at some point, he’ll step in for Sam Darnold. When that time comes, all eyes will be on him.

The prevailing conclusion was that, while McCarthy still has more to prove as an individual player, he has the arm talent, athleticism, and clean mechanics to thrive in Kevin O’Connell’s offensive structure. Dallas Turner is a close runner-up in terms of impact.

Once McCarthy gets into the game for the Vikings, it's going to be pandemonium. There was excitement for Teddy Bridgewater when he got his first start against the Atlanta Falcons in 2014. He ended up winning his first start but that was for a team that was firmly rebuilding.

McCarthy joins a team that is on the precipice of being special. The talent among premium positions is there, especially at wide receiver and offensive tackle. He could work through things on the fly if necessary, but the Vikings have Sam Darnold who can keep the pressure off of McCarthy.

There is a ton of excitement surrounding McCarthy and rightfully so, just make sure there is plenty of patience with him.

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