Minnesota Vikings star wide receiver Justin Jefferson has faith in his new quarterback, J.J. McCarthy—both on the field and in the gaming world. Meanwhile, his teammate, linebacker Ivan Pace Jr., has already hinted at his preference for McCarthy during a recent gaming session.
While live-streaming a game of Madden, Pace was playing as a Vikings wide receiver, with another player controlling Sam Darnold, the team’s virtual quarterback. After Darnold threw a costly interception on a two-point attempt, Pace didn’t hold back.
“What are you throwing, bruh? Oh, my God! Put J.J. in, bruh. Put Jonathan in, bruh,” he exclaimed during the April 18 stream. “We need a new QB. What they used to say? ‘New pitcher!’”
In real life, Darnold actually had a solid 2024 season—leading the Vikings to a record-setting 14 wins in his first year with the team. He completed 66.2% of his passes for 4,319 yards, 32 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions.
Still, Pace’s virtual wish is about to become reality. Darnold won’t be under center for the Vikings in 2025, having signed a three-year, $100.5 million deal with the Seattle Seahawks during the offseason.
While McCarthy hasn’t officially been named the starter, the Vikings have made it clear he’s their quarterback of the future—making his chemistry with Jefferson all the more important.
