After the Minnesota Vikings chose him over incumbent starter Sam Darnold, J.J. McCarthy’s expectations are even higher in 2025 than they were a year ago. Although fans remain split on his potential, Vikings safety Josh Metellus voiced the team’s confidence in their new quarterback.

Minnesota didn't get the memo on Monday. As the Vikings trotted onto the grass at TCO Performance Center, they ushered in their first padded practice of 2025 training camp in a sweltering current of 90-degree sun.

Josh Metellus walked to the podium on Saturday afternoon at TCO Performance Center and took a deep breath as he reflected on his journey to get to this point. After agreeing to a contract extension with Vikings that will keep him in Minnesota through his prime, Metellus found himself thinking back to where it all started.