WATCH: Nick Mullens connects with Trishton Jackson downfield

The Minnesota Vikings were dealt a massive blow on Wednesday with the news that rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy would miss the entirety of his rookie season after having surgery to repair a torn meniscus. This injury leaves Sam Darnold as the undisputed starting quarterback and a lot of uncertainty behind him.

Nick Mullens and Jaren Hall are suddenly battling for the backup quarterback duties, and Mullens appears to be taking full advantage of his new-found position. Where the two were previously fighting for a roster spot, it’s now possible that both make the roster, and 2024 could be another carousel season at the position.

If it is, it looks like Mullens has developed a connection with at least one of his wide receivers: Trishton Jackson. Jackson himself is embroiled in a position battle, his for the third wide receiver spot behind Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison. While Jalen Nailor may have a lead in the battle, Jackson is making sure that the staff doesn’t have an easy decision by making big plays in practice, like the one below.