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What is the Vikings' worst NFL draft pick in recent memory?
TL;DR
The Minnesota Vikings' worst recent draft pick is J.J. McCarthy, selected 10th overall in 2024. He struggled in his second season, leading to the signing of Kyler Murray after a disappointing performance.
Key points
- J.J. McCarthy was the 10th overall pick in the 2024 draft.
- He completed less than 58% of his passes in 2025.
- The Vikings signed Kyler Murray after McCarthy's struggles.
- Sam Darnold won a Super Bowl after leaving the Vikings.
- The Vikings have had notable successful draft picks like Adrian Peterson.
Minnesota VikingsSeattle Seahawks
The Minnesota Vikings have had some of the best draft picks in the NFL this century. Top selections include running back Adrian Peterson (seventh overall, 2007), Harrison Smith (29th overall, 2012), and wideout Justin Jefferson (22nd overall, 2020).
Unfortunately, Minnesota has also had some catastrophic draft misses. In 2005, they used the seventh overall pick (acquired in the Randy Moss trade) on speedy wide receiver Troy Williamson, who struggled mightily with drops. In 2011, they took quarterback Christian Ponder 12th overall, despite projections that Ponder would be a Day 2 selection.
However, CBS Sports' Bryan DeArdo believes no draft pick has flopped as badly for the Vikings as J.J. McCarthy, the 10th overall pick in the 2024 draft.
A year after drafting McCarthy (who missed his entire rookie season with an injury), the Vikings allowed Sam Darnold to test the open market, then watched as Darnold won a Super Bowl with the Seahawks. McCarthy, meanwhile, delivered a forgettable 2025 season that saw him complete less than 58% of his passes with more interceptions (12) than touchdown passes (11). His struggles last season compelled the Vikings to go out and sign .
Q&A
Why is J.J. McCarthy considered the Vikings' worst draft pick?
J.J. McCarthy is deemed the worst draft pick due to his poor performance, completing less than 58% of his passes and having more interceptions than touchdowns in 2025.
What happened to Sam Darnold after leaving the Vikings?
After leaving the Vikings, Sam Darnold won a Super Bowl with the Seattle Seahawks, highlighting the Vikings' decision to let him go.
Who were some of the Vikings' best draft picks in recent years?
Some of the Vikings' best draft picks include Adrian Peterson, Harrison Smith, and Justin Jefferson, all of whom have made significant impacts on the team.
