JJ McCarthy Rookie Contract: Salary, Guaranteed Money

JJ McCarthy won a national championship at Michigan as the signal-caller in an old-school power offense. That success seemed to be enough to get the redshirt sophomore drafted in the first round by one of the many quarterback-thirsty teams in 2024. 

Unlike some of his peers, McCarthy isn’t being handed the keys to the Vikings offense right away. Minnesota signed Sam Darnold to a new contract. Darnold will begin Vikings camp as the lead man.

Let’s see how long Darnold remains in command of the Minnesota offense before fans clamor to see the rookie. Minnesota Vikings odds are quite long in 2024; the team is not expected to win many games. 

JJ McCarthy Contract

JJ McCarthy signed a four-year, $21.85 million contract with the Vikings after being selected with the 10th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. 

The contract is fully guaranteed.

JJ McCarthy Signing Bonus

JJ McCarthy’s rookie contract included a signing bonus of $12,714,396.

JJ McCarthy Salary

As a rookie, JJ McCarthy will collect $795,000 in base salary. Added to the signing bonus cash he has already received, that’s a total of about $13.5 million that will hit his bank account this year.

Over the life of his contract, McCarthy’s average annual salary is approximately $5.46 million.

JJ McCarthy 5th Year Option

Like all first-round picks, McCarthy’s rookie contract can be extended by the Bears for a fifth year. That extension would govern the 2028 NFL season.

JJ McCarthy College Stats

During the 2023 season, McCarthy completed 72.3% of his passes for 2,991 yards and 22 touchdowns against four interceptions. He also rushed for 202 yards and three touchdowns on the ground. His passer rating was 167.4.