The NFL Draft history tells us that talent alone isn’t enough, one needs to land in the right situation. Just take the case of Patrick Mahomes, he had the opportunity to learn behind Alex Smith with Andy Reid. While, Trevor Lawrence struggled in his rookie year under Urban Meyer, only to thrive once the Jaguars built around him. The shift toward young QB is a struggle, but teams that surround them with the right coaching and weapons reach the playoffs. Next, the Vikings are going all-in on JJ McCarthy, on which Eisen made a take.
Eisen on The Rich Eisen Show said, “When you are a kid coming into the NFL, man, oh man.” He added, “I understand we have this conversation every year right around this time—certainly on draft night, certainly in the few weeks after the draft, and then watching a rookie go through his first season in the NFL.” Luckily for JJ McCarthy, he’s stepping into an offense loaded with talent. “JJ McCarthy has another JJ that he’s throwing to, right? Yeah, like Jettis, come on, heard of him?” Eisen joked about the luxury of having Justin Jefferson.
Add Jordan Addison, newly acquired Rondale Moore, and one of the best pass-catching tight ends in the league, T.J. Hockenson, and McCarthy is in a dream scenario for a rookie QB. The Vikings aren’t putting it all on McCarthy’s shoulders, either. They brought back Aaron Jones and added Jordan Mason for depth. “Jordan Mason backed up Christian McCaffrey last year… the waiver-wire darling of the universe,” Eisen pointed out. A strong run game will take pressure off JJ McCarthy, making play-action and deep shots even more effective.
It’s going to be JJ McCarthy’s team in Minnesota — why are the @vikings turning toward the youngster?#NFL #SKOL #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/agmv1BibZZ
— Rich Eisen Show (@RichEisenShow) March 21, 2025
Coaching stability is another major factor in a young quarterback’s success. “In terms of your coach, he’s the Coach of the Year who just signed a new contract. He’s going nowhere,” Eisen said about Kevin O’Connell. The Vikings aren’t in flux. McCarthy gets to develop under a coach known for working well with quarterbacks—something not every rookie gets. And unlike some young QBs, McCarthy won’t be running for his life. The Vikings “made some nice moves in free agency” to shore up the offensive line. A bad O-line can wreck a young quarterback’s confidence and development, but Minnesota is making sure that doesn’t happen.
McCarthy’s mindset is another big plus. “Kid’s a winner. He’s lost one game since high school,” Eisen noted. At Michigan, he played in a system that didn’t always showcase his arm, but he was efficient, poised, and made plays when needed. Now, he gets to work with elite weapons in an offense designed to maximize his strengths. Some have speculated that the Vikings could turn to Aaron Rodgers if McCarthy struggles, but Eisen doesn’t see it. “I don’t think they’re going to be knocking on Rodgers’ door in spring and summer,” he said. The Vikings are all-in on their rookie, and for good reason.
A rookie quarterback needs reliable weapons, and the Vikings have that covered. They made sure to re-sign Justin Jefferson, giving McCarthy one of the best targets in the league. Jordan Addison has already proven he can be a dangerous No. 2 receiver. To add even more speed and versatility, the Vikings signed Rondale Moore, who brings quickness and shiftiness to the slot position. Meanwhile, Aaron Rodgers’ uncertain future has been a hot topic, with his recent visit to the Pittsburgh Steelers fueling speculation. However, the Vikings’ clear commitment to McCarthy helps maintain focus within the organization. The Packers’ hesitation to fully commit to Jordan Love led to instability, something the Vikings are avoiding by backing McCarthy from the start.
But this places A-Rod in quite a pickle, eh?
The ever-evolving Aaron Rodgers drama
Aaron Rodgers is once again at the center of NFL drama, but this time, it’s not about darkness retreats or vaccine debates—it’s about where (or if) he’ll play in 2025. After a devastating Achilles injury cut short his first season with the New York Jets, Rodgers is a free agent for the first time in his career. The future Hall of Famer is exploring his options, but his market isn’t as strong as some expected.
Rodgers recently wrapped up a six-hour visit with the Pittsburgh Steelers, a move that sent shockwaves through the league. The Steelers, who have been linked to multiple veteran quarterbacks this offseason, are clearly doing their due diligence. Reports suggest that while there was mutual interest, no deal is imminent. Head coach Mike Tomlin has been vocal about wanting to upgrade from Kenny Pickett, but whether Pittsburgh is willing to commit to a soon-to-be 41-year-old Rodgers—who is coming off a major injury and a $37 million salary demand—remains uncertain.
Rodgers had been linked to the New York Giants, but that possibility evaporated when they signed Jameis Winston to a two-year deal worth up to $16 million. With the Giants out of the picture, the two other teams keeping an eye on Rodgers are the Cleveland Browns and Tennessee Titans. The Browns are an interesting wild card. Deshaun Watson has struggled with injuries, and Cleveland could see Rodgers as a win-now insurance policy. Meanwhile, the Titans are in a rebuilding phase but could view Rodgers as a way to stay competitive in the AFC South.
One team that won’t be in the mix is the Minnesota Vikings. They have made it clear they are not pursuing Rodgers and are fully committed to rookie QB JJ McCarthy. Any hopes of Rodgers following in Brett Favre’s footsteps and finishing his career in Minnesota have been shut down.
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