J.J. McCarthy’s draft journey was filled with twists and turns. Many expected the talented quarterback to land with the New England Patriots, but in a dramatic move, the Minnesota Vikings traded up one spot with the Jets to secure him at No.10.  This surprise trade sent shockwaves through the draft, with Vikings fans celebrating leaving the Pats stunned.

However, a recent social media post reveals an intriguing backstory. Apparently, Vikings GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah initially had doubts about McCarthy, even labeling him “a bit of an unknown.” Now did Adofo-Mensah have a change of heart to make such a surprising last-minute gamble? 

Vikings GM recalls pre-draft Zoom with J.J. McCarthy

The Minnesota Vikings pulled off a sharp move to secure J.J. McCarthy. However, Vikings GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah recently revealed an intriguing pre-draft Zoom call with the quarterback. The GM recalled how McCarthy boldly flashed all the rings he wears once a year of his play, leaving only his thumbs bare. He then confidently asked Adofo-Mensah, “Is there any reason you wouldn’t draft me?”

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Adofo-Mensah also seemed honest in his reply. “Honestly from a talent standpoint, no. You’re just a bit of an unknown because you played in an offense that’s pretty run-heavy” he said. He further explained, “There’s always a level of projection with these guys… but once you get around the person, a lot of guesswork goes away.” Thus despite those lingering questions, Adofo-Mensah saw McCarthy’s potential fit with the Vikings. 

Kwesi Adofo-Mensah: The mastermind decision-maker

Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, the Vikings’ general manager, just delivered a masterful offseason makeover with the 2024 NFL Draft. He not only secured his dream quarterback in J.J. McCarthy but also added a top defensive talent. They made a huge leap to land at No.17 to get their hands on Alabama edge rusher Dallas Turner.  This strategic move proves Adofo-Mensah is a mastermind gambler. He’s all set to built a well-rounded team, focusing on both offense and defense.

It wasn’t luck that got Adofo-Mensah his quarterback. Aware that other quarterback-needy teams like the Raiders and Broncos could snatch McCarthy, he didn’t wait. Instead, he made a smart trade with the Jets, giving up just a fourth-round and a fifth-round pick to move up one spot and secure McCarthy at No. 10. This small price was a steal compared to the potential loss if another team leapfrogged them. Even though the Vikings weren’t 100% sure about J.J. McCarthy, the trade shows the GM’s strong belief in his “skillsets”. This bold move is now injecting a championship vibe into the team as McCarthy is still riding high after his perfect season at Michigan.