The Vikings Start Backups Today Against Ravens

Following two joint practices with the Baltimore Ravens, the Minnesota Vikings will start their backups today at U.S. Bank Stadium for the second preseason game. Apparently, Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell saw enough from Kyler Murray and his starting offense during the practices. J.J. McCarthy will start the game and look to put more good film out there. 

This is a big opportunity for McCarthy. Also, Demond Claiborne, Tai Felton, and Myles Price have a chance to make a statement. Against the New York Giants, the offense had one series together, without Justin Jefferson, and Aaron Jones started at running back. It was clear why the Vikings still have confidence in Jones as his pass protection prowess was on display during the only drive.

Jordan Mason has gotten the most coverage and has a chance to carve out a bigger role, but Claiborne is the home run hitter at running back and has a chance to show he belongs and deserves a larger snap share.

Felton and Price are in a unique position. Price has a big special teams role, but he has impressed with his improvement as a receiver and Felton is working behind the trio of Jefferson, Jordan Addison, and Jauan Jennings. Price, in particular, has shown improvement and hauled in nearly every pass intended for him. 

McCarthy has to show leadership, professionalism, and most importantly, better accuracy and overall quarterback play. Cut down day is coming up across the league and McCarthy could be used as a trade piece for teams. It doesn't feel like Minnesota will cut the former first-round quarterback.

What team could be in line for his services? Miami comes to mind with Malik Willis as the starter and Quinn Ewers as the backup. Atlanta has to be at least peaking around at who could be available given the issues from Tua and the health concerns of Michael Penix. The issue with Miami is bringing in McCarthy could be the wrong message to send to Willis, who was brought in to start immediately and promised a shot as the future.

Still, McCarthy has to put the best film out possible to convince Minnesota to stick with him or to be used as a potential trade chip. Preseason games matter and the one quarter of play for McCarthy is incredibly important.