PFF makes an obvious choice for the Vikings biggest x-factor in 2025
PFF makes an obvious choice for the Vikings biggest x-factor in 2025
The Minnesota Vikings are returning most of their significant contributors in 2025, giving them one of the strongest rosters in the league outside of quarterback. With J.J. McCarthy replacing Sam Darnold, the Vikings' season could have a wide range of outcomes.
That's part of the reason that PFF ranked the Vikings' roster as the eighth-best in the league last week. And it's the reason McCarthy was PFF's choice for "X-Factor For 2025".
All eyes will be on McCarthy after he played in just one preseason game last season before he was shut down with a knee injury. He recorded an excellent 84.0 PFF passing grade in that lone appearance, but his acclimation to the starting job will be the key to Minnesota's success. With a talented unit around him and one of the NFL's best play-callers, Kevin O'Connell, running the show, McCarthy should be able to thrive in a complementary role.
As PFF states, McCarthy will be given every opportunity to succeed, something that not every rookie from the 2024 draft class had the luxury of last season. In three seasons under O'Connell, only 2023 fifth-rounder Jaren Hall has found no on-field success with extended playing time. Even that performance was such an outlier that it's hard to criticize anyone involved, including Hall.
If McCarthy can pick up where Darnold left off, the 2025 Vikings should be returning to the playoffs. If he can elevate his play in the postseason, the Vikings could be returning to the NFC Championship for the first time since 2017.
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