Why Hasn’t Vikings Rookie J.J. McCarthy Signed Contract?

Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy reportedly is one of just three 2024 NFL Draft picks that has yet to sign his rookie deal.

Why?

McCarthy was selected with the No. 10 overall pick back in April, and is expected to start rather quickly in Minnesota. He just can’t hit the field until pen is put to paper.

NESN’s George Balekji and Adam Pellerin discussed potential reasons for the holdup on the “Foxboro Rush” podcast Wednesday, drawing inspiration from a popular theory that has been spouted on X.

“They’re gonna get this deal done,” Pellerin said. “I’m not too worried about it… It’s just one of those things where it’s the business side of football. I was thinking about it, too, if you come from the outside looking in, is it a good look? Is it a good look to hold out before you even take a snap?”

It’s believed McCarthy’s holdup has to do with guaranteed money, as he reportedly wants his full signing bonus guaranteed and up front. The Vikings likely want to see what happens with Caleb Williams’ contract before finalizing things with McCarthy, because if he doesn’t get fully guaranteed money up front than it’s easier to deny McCarthy.

You can check out the “Foxboro Rush” episode in this YouTube video or on Spotify.