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As we race toward August, Footballguys.com will examine one team per weekday with our quick-hitting Team Sleepers feature. These players might not be deep sleepers, but we will be highlighting players our staff thinks will surprise this year and outperform their average draft position (ADP).
Go Deeper: See in-depth projections for every Vikings player here >>>
This is a weekday series that will stretch through August 1. If you like this and want another, come back the next workday. Another will be here.
Please note that our staff has identified the players listed below. The official Footballguys stance for every Viking can be found on our projections page.
Sleepers on the Minnesota Vikings
- QB J.J. McCarthy - 5 votes
- RB Aaron Jones - 5 votes
- RB Jordan Mason - 2 votes
- S Theo Jackson - 1 vote
- S Joshua Metellus - 1 vote
Reasons QB J.J. McCarthy Could Be a Sleeper
- Jason Wood: Footballguys consensus projections have McCarthy at QB12, which is demonstrably higher than ADP. The Vikings organization has built a contender, and their willingness to commit to McCarthy this offseason speaks volumes.
- Meng Song: Darnold was the QB8 in fantasy PPG in 2024, and Cousins was the QB7 in 2023. McCarthy's current ADP is bafflingly low given Kevin O'Connell's track record.
- David Zacharias: While many are taking a "wait til he proves it' position, the Vikings seem comfortable giving McCarthy the keys to their high-powered offense.
- Jeff Blaylock: His team had every chance to supplant him as the QB1, and they instead showed their faith in McCarthy. Drafters are discounting like dented furniture, so buy this high-quality showpiece while he's on sale.
- Colton Dodgson: Until it doesn't work, I'll bet on Kevin O'Connell supporting a QB1. McCarthy should be ready to lead the offense after his injury led to a redshirt rookie year.
