When McCarthy was drafted with the No. 10 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, it was clear that the Vikings were going to make him their future. Now, he'll have a chance to prove

Justin Jefferson established himself as one of the top wide receivers in the NFL through his first five seasons. As the Minnesota Vikings usher in a new era at the quarter position with J.J. McCarthy, Jefferson took on more of a leadership role this offseason.

“He’s a tremendous talent, tremendous leader, but his leadership really shows up when he’s here,” said McCarthy, who accompanied Jefferson to a Timberwolves playoff game last month when they sat together in courtside seats. “Just being able to get that chemistry building on and off the field has been invaluable.”