

It’s tough to gauge how impactful the results of the 2025 NFL Draft will be on Aaron Rodgers‘ NFL future. Over the past couple of months, since he was released from the New York Jets, three teams emerged as heavy contenders to be Rodgers’ next destination: New York Giants, Pittsburgh Steelers, Minnesota Vikings.
We can say for sure the Giants are no longer an option, given they signed two veterans and drafted another quarterback. The Steelers made no moves at the position during the draft, paving the way for them to be the betting favorite. Then there’s the Vikings, who pulled off a trade for backup Sam Howell but still have a question mark at starter with 22-year-old JJ McCarthy coming off of a major injury. Minnesota theoretically closed the door on Rodgers, but it may still be open.
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JJ McCarthy says he feels 110% and ready to start a football game
That door is closing very quickly, though, especially after McCarthy appeared on the Vikings’ practice field and talked to media members on Tuesday. McCarthy gave an update on his injury recovery status, while also brimming with confidence about his 2025 season outlook.
Overall, I feel 110 percent because I feel better than when I got hurt eight months ago… I know I’m ready to start. Because all the work that I put in and just the confidence in my skills and abilities. And just being able to do my job and simplify things to the best of my ability every single day.
McCarthy looked sharp in practice, too, linking up with Jordan Addison and other pass-catchers.
The 22-year-old has some relatively big shoes to fill, as Sam Darnold had a Pro Bowl season in 2024. But Darnold crumbled in some big moments, which led to Minnesota moving on from him. Given how quarterback-friendly Kevin O’Connell‘s system is, McCarthy is set up for success. It doesn’t hurt that he’s so confident he will succeed.
Meanwhile, Rodgers is practically down to just the Steelers as a realistic option for 2025. Their current starting quarterback is Mason Rudolph. Every other team seems to have a plan in place at signal-caller.
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