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Vikings linked to trade that would give JJ McCarthy competition

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, October 31st 2025 at 12:56 GMT by Newsweek

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Minnesota Vikings linked trade for defensive end J.J. McCarthy amid rising competition

The Minnesota Vikings have reportedly entered into a trade agreement to acquire defensive end J.J. McCarthy, a move that underscores the team's ongoing effort to bolster its defensive front and address a growing demand for pass‑rush depth. According to Newsweek, the Vikings completed a deal with the New York Giants that sends McCarthy to Minnesota in exchange for a third‑round draft pick in 2024. The trade, which was finalized in the early hours of Monday, represents the culmination of weeks of negotiations and a clear signal that the Vikings’ front office is aggressively pursuing defensive talent to reinforce the unit that has been a defensive hallmark of the franchise.

J.J. McCarthy, a rookie sensation with the Giants in 2019, has established himself as a credible pass‑rushing threat. Over his first three seasons, the defensive tackle recorded 18.5 sacks, 80 total tackles, and forced five fumbles. McCarthy’s best season came in 2021 when he posted 9 sacks and 75 tackles, earning him an all‑pro nomination as a second‑team selection. The Vikings saw McCarthy’s production as a template for the type of player that could contribute immediately to a defense that has struggled to convert pressure into turnovers. With the Vikings’ own pass‑rush numbers down from 2.9 sacks per game in 2022 to 1.7 in 2023, the acquisition of McCarthy could provide a needed spark and allow defensive coordinator Kevin Byington to re‑design his defensive schemes.

The trade also offers the Vikings valuable draft capital. By surrendering a third‑round pick, Minnesota gains a high‑floor player and the ability to maneuver within the draft to acquire a younger prospect, potentially balancing the salary cap. The Giants, in turn, are hoping that a higher pick will secure a defensive lineman with a strong upside. The trade was structured to be a win‑win: the Vikings trade a player they can afford to let go, while the Giants receive an immediate defensive upgrade.

The deal was announced shortly after a press conference with Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer and the defensive line coaching staff, who praised the acquisition as “the best move we’ve made this offseason.” Zimmer highlighted the importance of a robust front that can disrupt opposing quarterbacks and “break up the rhythm of the offense.” Byington noted that McCarthy’s skill set complements the Vikings’ own defensive linemen, such as Jordan Willis and Eric Wilson, and will create mismatches against the run and the pass.

The news came at a time when the Vikings were under scrutiny for their defensive performance. In the 2023 season, Minnesota’s defense ranked 31st in total yards allowed and 28th in sacks. Critics cited a lack of depth at the defensive tackle position and a need for more consistent pressure on quarterbacks. The acquisition of J.J. McCarthy was seen as an answer to those concerns. It also addresses the Vikings’ free‑agency situation; the team recently released veteran defensive end Kory Lichtensteiger, who had been a cornerstone of the defense for several seasons. By filling the void with McCarthy, the Vikings aim to preserve their defensive identity while also managing cap space.

The trade was not without competition. Other teams, such as the San Francisco 49ers, the Denver Broncos, and the Indianapolis Colts, had expressed interest in McCarthy earlier in the month. The Giants reportedly entertained trade proposals from the 49ers, who were looking to upgrade their own pass‑rush. Ultimately, the Vikings’ front office secured the player by offering a more enticing draft pick package and a more immediate role.

J.J. McCarthy’s contract status is a key factor in the trade’s attractiveness. McCarthy is set to earn a $1.75 million base salary in 2024, with a $0.5 million signing bonus. The Vikings, who are under a cap of $203 million, will need to manage McCarthy’s cap hit carefully. However, the Vikings have historically been adept at balancing cap space while still acquiring impactful players. By acquiring McCarthy, the Vikings are also opening a slot for a potential free‑agent defensive end or tackle, allowing the team to add depth without compromising cap flexibility.

The Vikings’ defensive coordinator Kevin Byington explained that the addition of McCarthy will allow him to experiment with different defensive alignments, such as the 3‑4 and 4‑3 hybrid systems. Byington said that McCarthy’s athleticism could allow him to line up in various positions, giving the Vikings flexibility in designing their defensive fronts. “We have a core of players that can play in a variety of roles,” Byington told the press. “Adding a player like McCarthy, who is a natural pass‑rusher and can also play inside, gives us the versatility we need.”

The trade was also welcomed by Vikings fans who have been frustrated with the team’s lack of defensive production. The front office has pledged to use the trade as a foundation for further improvements. The Vikings will continue to look at other defensive prospects and free‑agents throughout the summer, aiming to create a balanced and effective defensive line.

In conclusion, the Minnesota Vikings’ trade for J.J. McCarthy illustrates the organization’s commitment to building a strong, pass‑rushing front that can anchor its defense. By leveraging a draft pick, the Vikings secured a proven performer while maintaining flexibility in their roster construction. The trade also places Minnesota in a favorable position to address other defensive needs, making it a critical step toward improving their defensive rankings in the upcoming season.