Rookie quarterbacks are the story in early August as the NFL kicks off its first full weekend of the preseason. There were six selected in the first 12 picks of April’s draft. McCarthy was the fifth, going at the 10th spot in the first round. The Vikings traded up to get McCarthy as the team looked for its future face of the franchise.

However, on Saturday at U.S. Bank Stadium, Sam Darnold was the current face, at least for the opening snaps.

The Vikings need to replace Kirk Cousins, who signed in the off season with the Falcons. Minnesota secured Darnold, a one-time starter for the Jets and Panthers, from the 49ers as an option. Then they drafted McCarthy.

Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell released the team’s “unofficial” depth chart early this week. Darnold was first team, with McCarthy listed as second as an or with Nick Mullens, followed by Jaren Hall. O’Connell sent Hall into the game after McCarthy finished his stint.

Meanwhile, the Vikings aren’t going to risk Jefferson, the best receiver in the NFL, in a preseason opener. Jefferson signed a record four-year, $140 million contract earlier this summer. The $35 million a year salary makes Jefferson the highest paid non-quarterback in NFL history. That’s why Jefferson was available to offer on-field commentary for the entire third quarter.

Of course, the highlight was the McCarthy heave. It’ll likely be a distant memory for most everyone by the time the season starts next month. But McCarthy always will remember that time he threw his first touchdown pass as the star receiver screamed as he sprinted down the sideline to celebrate.

McCarthy threw his second TD of the game later in the third quarter. He won’t forget that, either.