Sep, 9 2025
22-year-old Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy blends meditation and meticulous prep with an on-field edge as he makes his first NFL start near his hometown in Chicago. Teammates describe a calm leader who turns fierce when the ball is snapped, and coaches trust his "gamer" streak. His rituals, color-coded opponent notes, and locker-room presence show why Minnesota is betting big on his mind.