Why the Minnesota Vikings over 9.5 wins looks like a strong bet even with Kyler Murray under center
The NFC North was one of the best divisions in football last season.All of the teams were competitive and expected to be solid.
Some of the teams were built on defense, others on offense, and some were well-balanced.The problem for many turned out to be injuries, but the Vikings felt like the team that was a piece away from success, despite missing the playoffs.The Minnesota Vikings ended up with a winning record, despite having a mixture of players at quarterback.
The team will still have some quarterback issues or controversy this season, but we will get to that in a moment.Last year, more than anything, showed people that JJ McCarthy is probably not ready to be a quarterback.
The team did win five straight to close the year, and McCarthy was under center for four of those games.However, his passing high for the season was 250 yards.
Ultimately, they missed the playoffs, wasting a really good defensive team.KYLER MURRAY AND JJ MCCARTHY GIVE WILDLY DIFFERENT ANSWERS ABOUT THEIR VIKINGS QB ROOM DYNAMICKyler Murray and J.J.McCarthy of the Minnesota Vikings look on during an OTA workout at Twin Cities Orthopedics Performance Center in Eagan, Minn., on May 27, 2026.
(David Berding/Getty Images)The major move for the Vikings this offseason was adding Kyler Murray to the roster.He will be the starting quarterback (supposedly).
The good news is that if Murray doesn’t work out, or they want to turn to McCarthy, the cost will be really low.Murray is on a veteran minimum contract, and he gets an elite receiver to throw to.
He also has a coach who seemingly rejuvenated Sam Darnold’s career.They did have to get rid of a few of their defensive players, so it is very possible their defense takes a step back.Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson (18) celebrates after catching a touchdown pass against the Seattle Seahawks during the fourth quarter at Lumen Field.
(Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images)SIGN UP TO GET THE LATEST SPORTS NEWSMurray, Aaron Jones, and Justin...