The Minnesota Vikings are keeping an eye on J.J. McCarthy’s rehab as he recovers from a torn meniscus that ended his rookie season before it ever began. How he continues to progress will determine how the Vikings answer the most pertinent question about the most important position.

Fields played out the final season of his four-year, $19 million rookie contract in 2024, going 4-2 as the Steelers' starter before the team replaced him with Russell Wilson. For his career, Fields has thrown for nearly 7,800 yards, 45 touchdowns and 31 interceptions while rushing the football for 2,509 yards and 19 scores.

Signed by the Vikings in March on a one-year, $10 million deal, Darnold — starting over injured rookie J.J. McCarthy, who underwent surgery for his meniscus during preseason — helped lead Minnesota to a 14-3 regular season record that boasted a nine-game win streak.