The Minnesota Vikings fell to the Baltimore Ravens 13-3 in their second preseason game, but the real story of the night centered on quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who showed flashes of brilliance alongside frustrating inconsistency.
McCarthy played 18 snaps over four series with the second-team offense, completing 5 of 10 passes for 81 yards. His highlight came on a 50-yard strike to wide receiver Tai Felton, but he followed that with two overthrown passes in the end zone that resulted in a turnover on downs. He also absorbed three hits and one sack before exiting the game.
Head coach Kevin O'Connell said McCarthy appeared fine after the game, though he acknowledged the quarterback got banged up. McCarthy has a lengthy injury history since being drafted 10th overall in 2024, missing his rookie season with a torn meniscus and seven games last year with a high ankle sprain and concussion.
What did J.J. McCarthy show against the Ravens?
The dual nature of McCarthy's performance has sparked debate among analysts. Anne Erickson of The Sporting News praised the 50-yard connection with Felton as an incredible moment that shows what both players can do. Dave Campbell of the Associated Press took a harsher view, noting McCarthy misfired to open receivers multiple times and threw too hard into the end zone twice.
McCarthy himself took responsibility for the missed opportunities.
Those are just throws I've got to make. Coaches called great plays, but at the end of the day, I know I can make those throws. It's great to have that experience logged in to be able to make that throw next time.
O'Connell echoed that sentiment, saying the team would love to capitalize on explosive plays like the one to Felton.
You'd love to capitalize on an explosive. The percentages say you get an explosive like that, your chances of scoring go way up. And if we could have finished that one, maybe the day looks different.
Which Vikings rookies stood out in the preseason game?
Defensive linemen Caleb Banks and Domonique Orange continued to impress. The rookie tandem, both top-100 draft selections, made plays throughout the game and drew praise from O'Connell and General Manager Nolan Teasley.
Teasley called Banks a two-phase player in the league and praised Orange's pass coverage ability, noting his versatility in Defensive Coordinator Brian Flores' scheme. Orange, who stands 6-foot-2 and weighs 322 pounds, said he hasn't dropped into coverage since high school but is embracing the challenge.
The stuff that coach Flo allows us d-linemen to do is incredible, and that's the reason why he's arguably one of the best defensive coordinators in the league, Orange said.
Undrafted rookie safety Jacob Thomas also turned heads, leading the team with six combined tackles and one pass defense. O'Connell called him a great find who takes advantage of his opportunities.
Who could be cut as the Vikings trim to 53 players?
With roster cuts looming, several players face uncertain futures. Projected cuts include centers Delby Lemieux and Gavin Gerhardt, cornerbacks Bryce Phillips and Jarod Washington, and defensive ends Jahvaree Ritzie and Smith Vilbert.
Other players on the bubble include offensive linemen Henry Byrd, Joshua Gray, and Tomas Rimac, along with several wide receivers and tight ends. Veteran safety Jamal Adams, 30, also appears on the projected cut list despite his experience.
Should the Vikings trade for a center?
One potential solution to Minnesota's center concerns could come from the trade market. Sports Illustrated suggests the Vikings should call the Seattle Seahawks about veteran offensive lineman Olu Oluwatimi, who won the Rimington Trophy at Michigan as the best center in college football.
Oluwatimi has started 13 of 36 career games for Seattle but has fallen out of favor behind Jalen Sundell. His 55.9 Pro Football Focus grade in 2025 ranks 35th among centers, and he played well in Week 1 of the preseason with a 79.9 pass block grade. General Manager Nolan Teasley has ties to Seattle from his time as assistant GM, which could facilitate a deal.
What's next for the Vikings?
The Vikings will continue preseason play before their season opener on Sept. 13. McCarthy's development remains the biggest storyline, with questions lingering about whether he can stay healthy and deliver on his potential.
Wide receiver Myles Price has emerged as a pleasant surprise, winning with separation and at the catch point despite his 5-foot-8.5 frame. He is likely a slot receiver and return specialist long-term, but his leap this preseason has been noteworthy.
As the roster takes shape, the Vikings will need to balance developing young talent with fielding a competitive team. The preseason has offered glimpses of promise, but the real test comes when the games count.