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McCarthy vs Maye: Vikings Patriots Joint Practice QB Comparison 2025

Training Camp| Roster Analysis| Preseason

August 14, 2025•5 min read

Eagan, Minnesota - Two first-round quarterbacks showcase their development in competitive Minnesota sessions

The spotlight was firmly fixed on two young quarterbacks when the Minnesota Vikings and New England Patriots concluded their two-day joint practice sessions at TCO Performance Center this week. J.J. McCarthy and Drake Maye, both 2024 first-round draft picks, provided the most compelling storyline as they faced elite defenses in a controlled yet competitive environment.

While the two quarterbacks weren't directly competing against each other, their performances offered a fascinating parallel study in young quarterback development, with both signal-callers demonstrating why their respective franchises invested heavily in their futures.

McCarthy's Measured Progress

For Vikings fans, Wednesday's joint practice marked another step in J.J. McCarthy's careful return from the meniscus injury that sidelined him for most of his rookie season. The former Michigan standout approached the Patriots defense with the same methodical precision that defined his college career, showing improved decision-making under pressure.

According to the Vikings' official practice report, McCarthy completed 8 of 13 attempts during team periods, with no interceptions against a Patriots defense that generated multiple turnovers throughout the session. His most impressive sequence came during a two-minute drill, where he completed three consecutive passes to move the Vikings into scoring position.

"[J.J.] looked comfortable in the pocket," noted Vikings offensive coordinator Wes Phillips after Wednesday's practice. "He's processing information quickly and making good decisions with the football."

The 13-play stint that capped McCarthy's day represented his longest continuous action since returning to practice. More importantly, it demonstrated his willingness to extend plays with his legs when necessary, addressing concerns about his mobility following the knee injury.

Maye's Explosive Showing

On the opposite sideline, Drake Maye continued his impressive training camp trajectory with what multiple observers described as his best practice of the summer. The North Carolina product consistently challenged the Vikings secondary, completing several deep throws that showcased both arm strength and accuracy.

Patriots teammates were particularly impressed with Maye's poise under pressure from the Vikings' aggressive defense led by coordinator Brian Flores. Despite facing frequent blitzes and coverage disguises, Maye maintained his composure and found open receivers consistently.

"Drake's decision-making has really improved," said Patriots wide receiver DeMario Douglas, who caught a team-leading six passes from Maye during Wednesday's session. "He's seeing the field better and getting the ball out quicker."

The highlight of Maye's day came on a perfectly placed 35-yard touchdown pass to Javon Baker during red zone drills, threading the ball between two Vikings defenders for a completion that drew applause from both coaching staffs.

Different Styles, Similar Goals

The contrast in playing styles between the two quarterbacks was evident throughout both practice sessions. McCarthy operated with the efficiency and game management approach that made him successful at Michigan, rarely forcing throws into tight coverage and consistently finding the checkdown option when pressured.

Maye, conversely, displayed the gunslinger mentality that made him a top-three draft pick, attempting several high-difficulty throws that showcased his exceptional arm talent. While this approach led to a few incompletions, it also produced several spectacular completions that highlighted his ceiling as a franchise quarterback.

Both quarterbacks faced significant challenges from opposing defenses specifically designed to test young signal-callers. The Vikings' defense, under Flores' direction, presented multiple looks and pressure packages that forced quick decisions. Similarly, the Patriots defense, led by coordinator DeMarcus Covington, utilized complex coverage schemes to challenge McCarthy's processing speed.

Coaching Perspectives

Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell expressed satisfaction with McCarthy's continued development, particularly his mental approach to the game.

"What I love about J.J. is his preparation and his understanding of what we're trying to accomplish," O'Connell said. "He's not trying to do too much. He's playing within the system and making good decisions."

Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel echoed similar sentiments about Maye's progress, emphasizing the quarterback's improved command of the offense.

"Drake is starting to really understand our system and what we're asking him to do," Vrabel noted. "His natural ability is obvious, but seeing him put it together mentally has been encouraging."

The Bigger Picture

For both franchises, these joint practices represented crucial evaluation opportunities as they prepare for the regular season. The Vikings, with Sam Darnold currently listed as the starter, are carefully managing McCarthy's development while keeping him ready for potential opportunities.

The Patriots, meanwhile, are in the midst of a quarterback competition where Maye is pushing veteran Jacoby Brissett for the starting role. Maye's strong showing against the Vikings defense only strengthened his case for early-season playing time.

Looking Ahead

Both quarterbacks will face their next test in Saturday's preseason game against the Patriots at Gillette Stadium. While neither is expected to play extensively, the game will provide another opportunity to evaluate their progress against live competition.

For Vikings fans, McCarthy's steady improvement offers hope that the franchise's quarterback of the future is on track despite the setback of his rookie injury. His performance in joint practices suggests he's ready to handle increased responsibilities when called upon.

Patriots supporters, meanwhile, have reason for optimism about Maye's rapid development. His ability to perform against a quality defense like Minnesota's indicates he may be ready for regular season action sooner than initially expected.

The Verdict

While direct comparisons between McCarthy and Maye remain difficult given their different offensive systems and roles, both quarterbacks demonstrated why their teams invested first-round picks in their services. McCarthy showed the steady, efficient play that projects to long-term success, while Maye displayed the dynamic ability that could accelerate his timeline to becoming a franchise cornerstone.

As both teams prepare for the 2025 season, these joint practices provided valuable data points in the ongoing development of two quarterbacks who could define their franchises for years to come.