The Minnesota Vikings are facing the Seattle Seahawks in Week 13, and head coach Kevin O’Connell announced that they will have rookie undrafted free agent Max Brosmer, not second-year first-round draft pick J.J. McCarthy, under center.
McCarthy remains in concussion protocol after getting banged up in Week 12 against the Green Bay Packers and experiencing symptoms postgame.
He practiced all week, but O’Connell ruled the Vikings would have their third starter this season.
Max Brosmer Sends Clear Message
GettyMax Brosmer #12 of the Minnesota Vikings reacts after a game against the Houston Texans.
Brosmer, who spent his final season in college at Minnesota, where O’Connell got his first look at the young QB, spoke candidly about the opportunity ahead of him.
“It was a great week, man. It’s a lot of fun being there with the guys and applying, kind of, what I felt like I’ve learned over … so much of the season so far,” Brosmer told reporters on November 28. “It’s a blessing to be out here with the guys. And I’m very grateful for it and can’t wait to go out there on Sunday with the guys.”
He also made it clear how locked in he is ahead of his first NFL start.
“I pride myself on being the most prepared guy on the field at all times. And that’s just something that I feel like caters to my strengths. And I was never the most athletic guy, never the strongest guy. But I felt like I could do it better with my mind on the field, and that’s playing NFL quarterback in my opinion. And I’m always challenging myself to do that to the best of my ability,” Brosmer said.
“There’s going to be ups and downs, but it’s about mental resiliency through the game. And I felt like the guys did a really good job with that this week. Where things may not be perfect, but we’re getting the play off and executing the play well.”
Brosmer said that is “all” he and the Vikings “hope” to get when they are on the field as an offense.
Vikings HC Kevin O’Connell Gives Max Brosmer Vote of Confidence With J.J. McCarthy in Concussion Protocol
GettyJ.J. McCarthy #9 of the Minnesota Vikings warms up before facing the Green Bay Packers.
O’Connell, who is known for his ability to speak positivity unto quarterbacks, offered just that for Brosmer as he prepares to take the reins for the Vikings this week.
“Regarding the QB position, we are going to rule out J.J. McCarthy. He was not able to clear the concussion protocol. Pleased with where he’s at. He’s progressing, but just not able to clear the last few steps. And quite honestly, just I have pretty strong feelings on just when guys do get a concussion, and where they’re at in regards to the next week. Always want to leave it open to the doctor’s ultimate to say and decision, and the protocol is in place for a reason,” O’Connell told reporters on November 28.
“Max had a really good week of practice. His preparation started long before this week, with how he’s prepared being either a snap away or even throughout training camp, and since he’s been here. I know the guys have a lot of confidence in him, and I’m very excited to see him play based upon the work he’s put in, and just how important I know this opportunity is to him. And these guys are going to play great around them, and we’re going to go compete on Sunday.”
O’Connell has endorsed McCarthy as the team’s starter, and Vikings players have voiced support for both players in the respective context. Still, it is a significant opportunity for Brosmer amid McCarthy’s persistent struggles as the Vikings’ starter this season.
Max Brosmer Gets Bad News Before 1st Start
GettyMax Brosmer #12 of the Minnesota Vikings looks on before a game against the Los Angeles Chargers.
Unfortunately for Brosmer, the Vikings’ injury woes extend beyond the quarterback position, including to his offensive line.
“Donovan Jackson will be ruled out,” O’Connell said. “We’ll have five players questionable. Christian Darrisaw, Jonathan Greenard, Theo Jackson, Josh Metellus, and Jalen Redmond, all questionable for the game. Nobody else will go in with a designation.”
Darrisaw is the Vikings’ starting left tackle and Jackson the starter at left guard.
Darrisaw still has an opportunity to play and protect Brosmer’s blind side. But both players have already missed two games this season. So, the final decision is not a given.
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