The Minnesota Vikings were all-in on developing quarterback J.J. McCarthy this season, after his rookie year was lost to injury, with the belief they could insulate him from some of the natural struggles of inexperience by surrounding him with a stacked veteran team and a savvy coaching staff.

The Los Angeles Chargers (5-3) dominated the Minnesota Vikings (3-4), 37-10, on Thursday Night Football.

"This is not a bury the tape kind of time for our organization. This is a 'watch it, view it, own it'. Every coach, every player. And it starts with me. I did not have our team prepared to play."

McCarthy’s injury has been a significant issue this season.

After Thursday's loss to the Chargers, head coach Kevin O'Connell told reporters McCarthy will start next week if he's healthy, which has been the case since he suffered the injury.

They need to have enough data to make a decision about McCarthy, so that they can explore their options in 2026.

The Los Angeles Chargers took down the Minnesota Vikings 37-10 on Oct. 23 to pick up their fifth win of the season, matching the Denver Broncos ' win total atop the AFC West.

The Minnesota Vikings will play the Los Angeles Chargers during Week 8 of the 2025 NFL season.