Hidden benefit of Vikings’ Kyler Murray signing revealed originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Minnesota Vikings‘ signing of Kyler Murray has been headline news for the past week as the franchise looks to go in a different direction at quarterback.

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With J.J. McCarthy struggling in his first season as a starter, it appears the Vikings want more and quickly. Enter Murray.

For most, this is a team that is built to win now, and having another so-so season with McCarthy just isn’t viable. So Murray comes in, presumably to be the starter for the 2026 season after likely beating out McCarthy for the role.

And for Sports Illustrated’s Gilberto Manzano, he’s given Minnesota a B for their free agency work, but has given insight into a hidden benefit of the Murray signing.

“The Vikings made two good moves at quarterback: convincing Murray to sign with them, and not promising him the starting job,” Manzano writes. “If a motivated Murray can decisively beat J.J. McCarthy for the starting job, that could be the start of another productive QB partnership for coach Kevin O’Connell.

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“Murray’s arrival could also keep Justin Jefferson happy after having to deal with McCarthy’s growing pains last season. This buy-low move could pay off in a big way in 2026.”

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Justin Jefferson big winner of Murray signing

It was a frustrating 2025 season for Jefferson, despite hauling in 84 catches for 1,048 yards (lowest of career) and two touchdowns (lowest of career).

Now, with Murray, who you can argue is head and shoulders above McCarthy, at least right now, Jefferson could be set to be a big winner of the deal.

With Sam Darnold in 2024, Jefferson posted 1,533 yards and 10 TDs from 103 receptions, so he can make it work with a veteran quarterback.

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And if Murray can get the best out of Jefferson, then it would only solidify the franchise’s thinking when it comes to who is the long-term starter.

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