FS1 host predicts J.J. McCarthy, Minnesota Vikings will reach 2025 NFC Championship

FS1 host backs J.J. McCarthy and Minnesota Vikings for deep playoff run

FS1 analyst Jason McIntyre, filling in for Colin Cowherd on The Herd Tuesday, predicted the Minnesota Vikings will play in the 2025 NFC Championship Game. McIntyre’s confidence centers on quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who was drafted 10th overall in 2024 but missed his rookie season due to a torn meniscus.

Despite the injury, McIntyre stated he is confident in McCarthy’s ability to lead the Minnesota Vikings. “I’m all in on J.J. McCarthy and the Minnesota Vikings,” McIntyre said. “They will play in the NFC Championship this year.”

Also read: NFL network to air 21 live preseason games ahead of 2025 season. Check date and time


McCarthy’s leadership was a key point in McIntyre’s assessment. He cited praise from running back Aaron Jones, who has reportedly spoken highly of McCarthy’s presence in the locker room. “The leadership — the dude’s got it,” McIntyre said. “Jim Harbaugh, who knows a little bit about football, loves J.J. McCarthy.”

Vikings looking to build on 2024 playoff appearance

The Minnesota Vikings finished the 2024 regular season with a 14-3 record and secured a spot in the NFC playoffs. However, their season ended in the wild-card round following a loss to the Los Angeles Rams. As the 2025 NFL season approaches, expectations remain high for a team seen as ready to contend.

The Vikings invested heavily in their future by selecting McCarthy in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft. The 21-year-old quarterback did not play during his rookie season due to injury, but the team’s commitment to him as their starter suggests confidence in his recovery and performance.

Minnesota added veteran talent such as Aaron Jones to support the offense, and McCarthy is expected to take full advantage of the team’s deep receiving corps and strong offensive line. His prior experience under Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh is also seen as a potential asset in adjusting to the professional level.

Also read: Vikings legend Jim Marshall, former NFL iron man, dies at 87

McIntyre referred to the 2025 Minnesota Vikings as a potential “team of destiny,” citing their recent success, roster construction, and McCarthy’s leadership qualities. The Vikings’ preseason schedule begins in just over two months, giving McCarthy his first chance to play since entering the NFL.

The prediction adds to growing anticipation around the Vikings’ season, with McCarthy expected to take the field as the team’s starting quarterback for the first time in 2025. Whether the Minnesota Vikings can meet playoff expectations remains to be seen as the season approaches.