Total Pro Sports
Kevin O’Connell had the chance to bring Aaron Rodgers to Minnesota. He didn’t take it. Instead, the Vikings head coach made a choice that raised eyebrows across the NFL, choosing to roll with 22-year-old JJ McCarthy over the four-time MVP quarterback.
While Rodgers recently landed with the Pittsburgh Steelers, reports had swirled for months suggesting the 41-year-old had his sights set on the Vikings. But O’Connell decided to keep his eyes on the long-term future, not the short-term splash.
O’Connell spoke with Rodgers earlier this offseason and discussed the possibility of teaming up. However, during an interview with Minneapolis radio station KFAN-FM 100.3, the coach revealed that he never wavered in his decision to move forward with McCarthy.
“When there was an opportunity, when him and I connected this offseason just to kind of talk about what that would look like, we had a lot of great dialogue about it,” O’Connell said. “But it always was centered around what was best not only for the present in the Minnesota Vikings organization, but the future.”
#Vikings HC Kevin O’Connell on his offseason discussions with Aaron Rodgers:
“There was an opportunity when him and I connected, just to kinda talk about ‘Hey what would that look like…’ I was very honest about my feelings towards JJ. My obligation that I felt like we were… pic.twitter.com/ssGJDj6TvR
— VikingzFanPage (@vikingzfanpage) June 6, 2025
O’Connell confidently backed McCarthy, clarifying that the second-year quarterback had earned his shot. “I was very honest about my feelings toward JJ,” he said***. “My obligation that I felt like we were going to give him the best possible situation to begin and thrive on this NFL journey and let’s see where it goes.”***
Rodgers had star power, but O’Connell stayed firm, choosing long-term vision over sentiment or short-term gain. “I still talk to him, and the next time I do, it’ll be the same old, same old,” O’Connell said. “He’s different than people probably think, but that’s just part of it these days.”
After leading the Vikings to a 14-3 record last season, Sam Darnold left for Seattle on a three-year, $100.5 million deal. That move opened the door for McCarthy, who the Vikings drafted tenth overall in 2024.
“He’s having a great spring,” O’Connell said of his new starter. “He’s healthy, strong, throwing the ball great, fundamentals — everything you hope for in the spring.”
By passing on Rodgers, O’Connell made his vision clear. He’s not chasing a quick fix—he’s building something that lasts.
Also Read: BREAKING: Aaron Rodgers Has Finally Made His Decision On 2025 NFL Season
