EAGAN, Minn. — Autumn is not known for its blooms.

Quite the contrary, really. But in football, ideally the work done during spring and summer workouts blossoms to a bountiful harvest reaped each game day.

As returnee J.J. McCarthy and newcomer Kyler Murray hit the field Wednesday for their first walk-through and practice of 2026 Vikings Training Camp, both participated in media sessions, explaining their excitement at reaching this point in the calendar.

Both made the most of the six-week break between Minnesota's offseason program, which concluded in June, by enjoying family time, as well as connecting with teammates in various ways on and off practice fields near and far.

Both know the value of time on task, investing into learning the offensive system and each doing his best because the quarterback position affects every other spot of the field.

Head Coach Kevin O'Connell told media members Tuesday that he met individually with each QB and plans to have both players take first- and second-team reps on the way to determining the starter.

Offensive Coordinator Wes Phillips described McCarthy's progress as an upward arrow this offseason, and coaches have been complimentary of Murray's unique skill sets.

McCarthy made 10 starts for Minnesota in 2025, dealing with injuries for a second season, but came up big in key moments at Chicago and Detroit before another setback in November. He entered concussion protocol following Minnesota's loss at Green Bay and missed the Seattle game in which the team fell to 4-8. After that, however, he returned to the lineup and delivered more-than-solid performances to help spark a five-game win streak.

"Once I got healthier after that Seattle week, in the Washington and Dallas [games], I felt like I was hitting that upward trajectory," McCarthy said. "And I'm certain it's still been going up since then. And just being able to keep the routine the way it is, adjust a little bit here or there, but just keep getting those reps and keeping that familiarity with this offense and performing at the highest level possible."

He described things as "clicking" from the moment of relaying the play call to delivering the football, synching his footwork with the rhythm and timing of the plays.

"Just being able to have that chemistry and the organic chemistry with all the receivers and the relationships that I have, it's really awesome to really feel a part of this team and just step out here every day with those guys and keep getting better," McCarthy said.

Murray joined the Vikings during free agency after spending seven seasons as Arizona's starter. The 2019 No. 1 overall pick won Offensive Rookie of the Year honors and went to Pro Bowls after the 2020 and 2021 seasons but endured multiple changes during his time with the Cardinals.

He described wanting to lead by example and establish that footing play by play.

"As I get to prove myself by the plays that I make, being around the guys, it's easier for me to continue to open up, be more vocal," Murray said when asked about his leadership. "And I think all that naturally comes, especially when we get out here, play games, practice, and just being around the guys more, that organically happens.

Murray has spent time getting caught up in the system, going over scripts and the playbook "every day for the last six weeks."

"I feel great. It really helped me going through OTAs for sure," Murray said. "Having done it once now, obviously this time it's about to be real, but I truly believe that going through OTAs has prepared me for what's to come.

"I think it's a reps thing — continue to do it over and over again, say it over and over again," he added. "And the more you do it, the more you say it, the more it comes natural, the more it comes easier. And I think that's really the process for me. I think once all that settles down, for me, it's just playing football."

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