Vikings HC Kevin O'Connell updates starting QB battle

Minnesota Vikings rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy — as well as the team's other three signal-callers — reported to training camp on Monday.

Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell spoke to reporters about the ongoing starting quarterback battle, which pits McCarthy against fellow former first-round pick Sam Darnold.

ESPN's Kevin Seifert reported Friday that O'Connell has "publicly and privately" said the Michigan product's timetable to start was "open-ended" leading up to the preseason.

If Minnesota opts to begin the regular season with Darnold under center, the group notably has an early Week 6 bye and could install McCarthy as the starter following the break.

Kirk Cousins signed with the Atlanta Falcons after spending six seasons (including three Pro Bowl campaigns) with the NFC North club.

The Vikings then signed Darnold and selected McCarthy with the 10th overall pick in April's NFL Draft.

Minnesota also has undrafted 29-year-old veteran Nick Mullens and 2023 fifth-round pick Jaren Hall on the projected quarterback depth chart behind Darnold and McCarthy.