Aaron Rodgers exits the NFC North for the Steelers (June 2025), boosting Vikings' hopes! QB J.J. McCarthy shines at Vikings OTAs. Get the full story now!
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
Friday, June 6th, 2025, brought a collective cheer from Vikings fans as the seemingly endless Aaron Rodgers saga reached its conclusion – and it's fantastic news for the Purple and Gold! The longtime Packers nemesis is officially heading to Pittsburgh, clearing a significant hurdle in the NFC North. Back at TCO Performance Center, the Vikings wrapped up their sixth OTA practice, with promising signs from quarterback J.J. McCarthy and updates on key injured players.
The Aaron Rodgers era in the NFC North is officially over. He's flying to Pittsburgh this weekend.
The news every NFC North fan (outside of Green Bay, perhaps) has been waiting for: Aaron Rodgers has made his decision. He informed the Pittsburgh Steelers he'll be flying in this weekend to sign a one-year deal and will participate in their minicamp next week. This officially ends months of speculation and removes a significant, often dominant, figure from the Vikings' divisional path. While his impact in recent years wasn't the same, his departure undeniably reshuffles the deck in the NFC North, offering a sigh of relief and perhaps a clearer path for the Vikings.
As one quarterback chapter closes for the division, another is in full swing for the Vikings. J.J. McCarthy continues to impress, fully participating in OTAs without any limitations from his previous knee injury. Coach Kevin O'Connell reiterated McCarthy is considered 'full' with 'really no limitations,' a fantastic sign as he prepares for his first full season as the Vikings' starting quarterback. The team completed OTA Practice No. 6 on June 5th, with released footage showcasing player progress as they build towards mandatory minicamp. The team's daily news update on YouTube also highlighted this progress.
Positive news continues on the injury front. Left tackle Christian Darrisaw is reportedly progressing well in his rehabilitation from the torn ACL and MCL he suffered last October. While his timeline is different, this update is encouraging. Meanwhile, defensive tackle Javon Hargrave and right guard Will Fries remain limited in these early OTA sessions as they recover from their respective season-ending injuries from last year. Coach O'Connell expects them to ramp up their activity as the offseason program moves into phase two, particularly with minicamp approaching.
Not all news was met with universal team enthusiasm. Vikings defensive end Jonathan Gernard took to social media to express his frustration with the team's demanding international schedule. The Vikings are set to become the first NFL team to play consecutive games in different countries, facing the Steelers and Browns overseas in 2025. Gernard's 'SMH' (shaking my head) comment highlights potential player concerns over the unprecedented travel and logistical challenges of such a schedule.
With Rodgers finally out of the NFC North and our own QB1 J.J. McCarthy looking sharp and fully recovered, the focus sharpens on the upcoming mandatory minicamp. Key players continue their recovery, and while the unique challenge of back-to-back international games looms, the Vikings are building momentum. Next week's minicamp will be a crucial litmus test. Skol!
