- J.J. McCarthy
- #9
- Team MIN
- Pos QB
- Status QQuestionable
-
Exits early in season finale
McCarthy completed 14 of 23 pass attempts for 182 yards and added seven yards on two carries before exiting Sunday's 16-3 win over the Packers in the third quarter after aggravating a right hand injury.
Analysis: Unfortunately for McCarthy, his 10th career start came to an early end, as he attempted just one pass in the second half before informing head coach Kevin O'Connell that the small hairline fracture in his throwing hand was presenting issues with gripping the football. After having his entire 2024 rookie season wiped out by a meniscus tear in his right knee, McCarthy missed seven total games in 2025 due to a right high-ankle sprain, a concussion and the aforementioned hand injury. When…read more
Published: Mon, Jan 5 at 6:35am by Rotowire.com
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Aggravates right hand injury
McCarthy exited Sunday's game versus the Packers due to a right hand injury.
Analysis: McCarthy appeared to aggravate his previously injured right hand early in the third quarter of Week 18 action. At the time of his departure, he had completed 14 of 23 passes for 182 yards, no touchdowns and no interceptions and took his two carries for seven yards. Undrafted rookie Max Brosmer took over for McCarthy.
Published: Sun, Jan 4 at 11:54am by Rotowire.com
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Named as Week 18 starter
McCarthy (hand) will start Sunday's game against the Packers, Dane Mizutani of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.
Analysis: The Vikings won't have RB Aaron Jones (hip) or TE T.J. Hockenson (shoulder), potentially placing more of the offensive burden on WRs Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison. Neither has done much with McCarthy under center this season, but things were even worse with undrafted rookie Max Brosmer making starts. The Packers, meanwhile, are expected to rest a lot of key players in preparation for the postseason.
Published: Fri, Jan 2 at 11:32am by Rotowire.com
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Logs full practice Thursday
McCarthy (right hand) practiced fully Thursday.
Analysis: McCarthy sat out last Thursday against the Lions due to a hairline fracture in his right throwing hand that he sustained Week 16 at the Giants. He got back on the field Tuesday and had a "really positive" throwing session, as coach Kevin O'Connell told Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com. With a full practice now under his belt, McCarthy is set to take on the Packers in Week 18.
Published: Thu, Jan 1 at 1:17pm by Rotowire.com
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Limited Wednesday, is 'day-to-day'
McCarthy said after Wednesday's practice that he was limited and remains "day-to-day," Ben Goessling of The Minnesota Star Tribune reports.
Analysis: McCarthy sustained a hairline fracture in his right throwing hand Week 16 at the Giants and didn't play last Thursday against the Lions. Coach Kevin O'Connell told Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com that McCarthy had a "really positive" throwing session Tuesday, and the quarterback himself said Wednesday that he "felt good throwing." It remains to be seen if McCarthy will be able to suit up Sunday versus the Packers, but Max Brosmer is on hand for another start if the former isn't cleared to play.
Published: Wed, Dec 31 at 1:49pm by Rotowire.com
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Returning to practice Wednesday
Coach Kevin O'Connell said McCarthy went through a "really positive" throwing session Tuesday with the Vikings' medical staff and will take part in Wednesday's practice, Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: McCarthy suffered a hairline fracture in his right throwing hand during a Week 16 win at the Giants that sidelined him for last Thursday's victory against the Lions. O'Connell said McCarthy likely will be limited in his return to drills Wednesday, but the second-year QB nonetheless is progressing in advance of Sunday's regular-season finale versus the Packers.
Published: Wed, Dec 31 at 11:06am by Rotowire.com
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Week 18 status TBD
Coach Kevin O'Connell said Monday that McCarthy (hand) is progressing and the swelling has come down, but his status for Sunday's regular-season finale against the Packers is to be determined, Alec Lewis of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: O'Connell said it's going to come down to McCarthy's ability to grip the football after he suffered a fracture in his throwing hand Week 16 against the Giants. Max Brosmer made the Week 17 start against the Lions but was borderline incompetent once again, completing just nine of 16 passes for 51 scoreless yards while absorbing seven sacks. McCarthy's status will be updated again no later than Wednesday.
Published: Mon, Dec 29 at 10:49am by Rotowire.com
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Ruled out for Week 17
Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell said Tuesday that McCarthy has been diagnosed with a small hairline fracture in his right hand following an MRI and has been ruled out for Thursday's game against the Lions.
Analysis: According to Ben Goessling of The Minnesota Star Tribune, O'Connell said that McCarthy's injury is "similar to a bone bruise," adding that the Vikings don't view the issue as significant enough to send the second-year quarterback to injured reserve, leaving the door open for the QB to play in their season finale Jan. 4 versus the Packers. Minnesota will turn to Max Brosmer to make his second start of the season, after the undrafted rookie came on in relief for an injured McCarthy in this past…read more
Published: Tue, Dec 23 at 11:06am by Rotowire.com
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'DNP' on practice estimate
McCarthy (hand) was deemed a non-participant on Monday's practice estimate, Craig Peters of the Vikings' official site reports.
Analysis: McCarthy, who left Sunday's 16-13 win over the Giants with an injury to his right throwing hand, thus has two more chances to upgrade his listed participation level ahead of Thursday's game against the Lions. In the event that McCarthy is unavailable for the contest, Max Brosmer would be in line to draw the start at QB for the Vikings in his place.
Published: Mon, Dec 22 at 3:03pm by Rotowire.com
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Set to undergo further tests Monday
McCarthy, who left Sunday's 16-13 win over the Giants, appears to have avoided a broken bone in his hand, according to Ben Goessling of The Minnesota Star Tribune, with coach Kevin O'Connell having confirmed that the QB's initial X-rays came up negative.
Analysis: Following the game, McCarthy was spotted with his right hand in a fingerless glove in the Vikings' locker room. Per Goessling, McCarthy will undergo further testing Monday, but for now consider the QB day-to-day as Thursday's game against the Lions approaches. If McCarthy is unavailable for that contest, Max Brosmer would be in line to draw the start in his place.
Published: Sun, Dec 21 at 1:54pm by Rotowire.com
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Hurts hand Sunday
McCarthy won't return to Sunday's game against the Giants after sustaining a hand injury.
Analysis: McCarthy, who finishes the contest with 108 passing yards and a pick to go along with two carries for 20 yards and a TD, will thus target a potential return to action Thursday against the Lions. In his absence Sunday, Max Brosmer will take over at QB for the Vikings.
Published: Sun, Dec 21 at 11:47am by Rotowire.com
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Scores thrice in back-to-back wins
McCarthy completed 15 of 24 pass attempts for 250 yards, two touchdowns and one interception while taking four carries for 15 yards and a third score in Sunday's 34-26 win over Dallas.
Analysis: McCarthy has been playing inspired ball since returning from his second layoff due to injury this season. The 22-year-old has generated six touchdowns (five passing) in the two games since returning from a concussion in Week 14, earning his club wins in both starts. His struggles getting top WR Justin Jefferson (2-22-0) involved on offense continued, but at least the young signal-caller has corrected his own inconsistent play from earlier in the schedule. Fantasy managers still struggling to…read more
Published: Sun, Dec 14 at 9:05pm by Rotowire.com
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Career-high three TDs in big win
McCarthy completed 16 of 23 passes for 163 yards and three touchdowns in Sunday's 31-0 win over the Commanders. He added 19 rushing yards on six carries.
Analysis: The three TDs were a career high for McCarthy, although it was just his seventh career NFL game thanks to an injury-plagued start to his career. All three scores went to tight ends, two to Josh Oliver and one to T.J. Hockenson, as Justin Jefferson continues to be neutralized in the Vikings' offense. McCarthy was the 10th overall pick in the 2024 Draft and hasn't really had much of a chance to demonstrate his upside yet, but a strong finish to the current campaign would brighten Minnesota's…read more
Published: Sun, Dec 7 at 1:29pm by Rotowire.com
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Good to go
McCarthy (concussion) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Commanders, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: McCarthy cleared concussion protocol Wednesday or Thursday and managed full practice participation throughout the week. There's not much good to say about his 2025 campaign or Minnesota's offense, but they'll at least be at home against a Washington defense that's allowing 254.9 passing yards per game (30th) and 8.7 YPA (32nd). Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell said Friday that McCarthy had a "great week" of practice.
Published: Fri, Dec 5 at 11:41am by Rotowire.com
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Out of concussion protocol
McCarthy spoke to the media Thursday, indicating that he's out of the concussion protocol, Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: McCarthy emerged from a Week 12 loss at Green Bay with concussion symptoms and entered league protocol, resulting in him missing this past Sunday's defeat in Seattle. After logging full practices Wednesday and Thursday and subsequently holding a media session, he's gained clearance from an independent neurologist and thus is set to return to action Sunday versus the Commanders.
Published: Thu, Dec 4 at 1:14pm by Rotowire.com
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Logs full practice Wednesday
McCarthy (concussion) practiced fully Wednesday.
Analysis: Coach Kevin O'Connell told Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com on Monday that McCarthy was closing in on gaining clearance from the concussion protocol, and a full session to begin Week 14 prep indicates he's on the precipice of doing so. A meeting with an independent neurologist still must take place, but he'll have a few more days to get cleared before Sunday's matchup with the Commanders. McCarthy will take back the reins of the Vikings offense from undrafted rookie QB Max Brosmer once he's able to…read more
Published: Wed, Dec 3 at 2:57pm by Rotowire.com
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Closing in on clearing concussion protocol
Coach Kevin O'Connell said Monday that McCarthy doesn't have concussion symptoms anymore and should emerge from the protocol for head injuries if he practices fully Wednesday, Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: If that occurs, McCarthy will resume starting duties Week 14 against the Commanders after sitting out this past Sunday's loss at Seattle, when undrafted rookie Max Brosmer got the nod and stumbled through a 26-0 shutout loss. McCarthy didn't fair much better in his four appearances prior to sitting out Week 13, completing 62 of 118 passes (52.5 percent) for 628 yards, four touchdowns and seven interceptions and taking 16 carries for 70 yards and one TD during that span.
Published: Mon, Dec 1 at 11:08am by Rotowire.com
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Ruled out for Sunday
McCarthy (concussion) has been ruled out for Sunday's game at Seattle, Ben Goessling of The Minnesota Star Tribune reports.
Analysis: McCarthy made enough progress though the concussion protocol to log limited practices Wednesday and Thursday, but Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell revealed Friday that the QB remains in protocol. Rookie Max Brosmer will make his first NFL start, after handling the first-team reps at practice this week.
Published: Fri, Nov 28 at 11:53am by Rotowire.com
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Remains limited Thursday
McCarthy (concussion) was listed as limited on Thursday's practice report, Alec Lewis of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: After reporting concussion symptoms following this past Sunday's loss at Green Bay, McCarthy so far has been limited on both of the Vikings' Week 13 injury reports. He likely will need to progress to a full session Friday to give himself an opportunity to be available Sunday at Seattle. Max Brosmer handled first-team reps at Wednesday's practice and would be in line for his first career start this weekend if McCarthy isn't able to gain clearance from an independent neurologist.
Published: Thu, Nov 27 at 2:21pm by Rotowire.com
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Limited practice Wednesday
Coach Kevin O'Connell said McCarthy has made enough progress through the concussion protocol to practice in a limited capacity Wednesday, Dane Mizutani of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.
Analysis: McCarthy reported symptoms of a head injury on the flight back to Minnesota from Green Bay on Sunday, which spurred the Vikings to place him in the concussion protocol. His ability to log at least individual drills at Wednesday's practice would seem to give him a chance to be available for Sunday's game at Seattle, but backup Max Brosmer is handling all the first-team reps at the beginning of Week 13 prep.
Published: Wed, Nov 26 at 11:02am by Rotowire.com
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In concussion protocol
Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell said Monday that McCarthy has been placed in the concussion protocol due to symptoms that manifested after Sunday's loss to the Packers, Alec Lewis of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: McCarthy's status for Week 13 must now be considered uncertain, as he won't be eligible to retake the field until he's gained full clearance from the NFL's five-step concussion protocol, including from an independent neurologist. O'Connell confirmed that undrafted rookie Max Brosmer will take first-team reps to begin Week 13 preparations, per Ben Goessling of The Minnesota Star Tribune, and start versus the Seahawks on Sunday if McCarthy is unavailable.
Published: Mon, Nov 24 at 10:48am by Rotowire.com
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Abysmal numbers in loss
McCarthy completed 12 of 19 passes for 87 yards with no touchdowns and two interceptions while adding two rushes for 10 yards in the Vikings' 23-6 loss to the Packers on Sunday. He also fumbled once but recovered.
Analysis: The second-year signal-caller's nightmarish stretch of play continued, and McCarthy has now thrown for 150 yards or fewer in three of his last four games. McCarthy also failed to throw a touchdown pass for the first time in four games since returning from injury, and of greater concern, he tossed a pair of interceptions for the third consecutive contest. With Carson Wentz (shoulder) on injured reserve and the Vikings needing to see whether McCarthy can work his way through the most…read more
Published: Sun, Nov 23 at 1:31pm by Rotowire.com
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Struggles continue in Week 11 loss
McCarthy completed 16 of 32 passes for 150 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions in Sunday's 19-17 loss to the Bears.
Analysis: McCarthy turned 19 first-half pass attempts into just 74 yards and threw two interceptions as the Vikings took a 10-3 deficit into the locker room. He didn't complete another pass until less than three minutes remained in the fourth quarter, but McCarthy then proceeded to engineer a go-ahead drive capped by a 15-yard touchdown pass to Jordan Addison, which gave the Vikings a 17-16 lead. Chicago answered with a game-winning field goal on the game's final play, overshadowing McCarthy's late-game…read more
Published: Sun, Nov 16 at 2:36pm by Rotowire.com
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Seen warming up with wrap on hand
McCarthy was seen warming up before Sunday's game with a wrap on his right throwing hand, according to Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune. However, it's the same bandage he had on his hand throughout the week of practice, Emily Leiker of The Minnesota Star Tribune reports.
Analysis: McCarthy opened Week 11 prep Wednesday as limited due to a right hand injury, but he was not on the injury report thereafter and doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against Chicago. McCarthy suffered the right hand injury after hitting it on the helmet of a Ravens defender while following through on a pass attempt in Week 10. While McCarthy does not have an injury designation for Sunday's game, the use of a wrap on his hand in pre-game warmups shows it could be of some concern.
Published: Sun, Nov 16 at 9:03am by Rotowire.com
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Cleared to play
McCarthy (hand) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against Chicago, Dane Mizutani of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.
Analysis: This was expected following McCarthy's return to full practice participation Thursday. He hit his right hand on the helmet of a Baltimore defender during the Week 10 loss, perhaps impacting his accuracy down the stretch, but it sounds like he's throwing passes and taking snaps without any problem 4-to-5 days later.
Published: Fri, Nov 14 at 11:56am by Rotowire.com
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Full practice Thursday
McCarthy (right hand) practiced fully Thursday.
Analysis: McCarthy opened Week 11 prep Wednesday as limited due to a right hand injury, which stemmed from hitting it on the helmet of a Ravens defender while following through on a throw this past Sunday. He's been wearing padding on the hand in question in practice this week, but on Thursday he was able to take snaps under center and also attempt passes, per Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com. McCarthy's ensuing listing of full indicates that he's good to go ahead of Sunday's game versus the Bears.
Published: Thu, Nov 13 at 1:05pm by Rotowire.com
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Limited due to hand injury
McCarthy (right hand) practiced in a limited fashion Wednesday.
Analysis: McCarthy hit his right hand on a Baltimore defender's helmet while following through on a pass during this past Sunday's loss to the Ravens, but he didn't miss a snap and completed 20 of 42 passes for 248 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions while rushing five times for 48 yards. Alec Lewis of The Athletic reported Wednesday that McCarthy has some swelling in the hand in question, but there's been no indication that he's in danger of missing Sunday's contest against the Bears.
Published: Wed, Nov 12 at 2:01pm by Rotowire.com
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Struggles against Ravens
McCarthy completed 20 of 42 passes for 248 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions in Sunday's 27-19 loss to the Ravens. He added five rushes for 48 yards.
Analysis: McCarthy started the game well, leading the Vikings to an opening-drive touchdown, primarily on the strength of a 62-yard completion to Jalen Nailor. However, it was an up-and-down performance from there, as he turned the ball over twice in three possessions spanning late in the second quarter to early in the third quarter, changing the trajectory of the game. On the other hand, he had three completions of at least 20 yards while also racking up a season-high 48 rushing yards. McCarthy is…read more
Published: Sun, Nov 9 at 3:32pm by Rotowire.com
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Three total TDs in upset win
McCarthy completed 14 of 25 passes for 143 yards with two touchdowns and one interception while adding nine rushes for 12 yards and another score in the Vikings' 27-24 win over the Lions on Sunday. He also fumbled once but recovered.
Analysis: The second-year signal-caller made his return from a five-game absence and delivered a significant upset in a difficult road environment. McCarthy's final stat line wasn't exactly scintillating, yet it was still fantasy-friendly thanks to his 10- and seven-yard touchdown passes to Justin Jefferson and T.J. Hockenson in the first half, as well as his own nine-yard rush with just over six minutes remaining in the third quarter. McCarthy flashed encouraging chemistry with both Jefferson and Jordan…read more
Published: Sun, Nov 2 at 1:42pm by Rotowire.com
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Logs full practice Wednesday
McCarthy (ankle) was a full practice participant Wednesday.
Analysis: In the wake of Carson Wentz's imminent season-ending surgery on his left non-throwing shoulder, McCarthy was expected to take over starting QB duties for the first time since Week 2 this coming Sunday at Detroit. McCarthy's ability to handle every practice rep to begin Week 9 prep is a great sign that the Vikings will have the 2024 first-round pick back in action for that contest. McCarthy himself told Ben Goessling of The Minnesota Star Tribune on Wednesday that his right ankle feels "amazing"…read more
Published: Wed, Oct 29 at 2:19pm by Rotowire.com
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On track for Week 9 start
Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell said Wednesday that McCarthy (ankle) will be the starter for Sunday's game against the Lions and get a full week of practice in preparation for his return to the lineup, Ben Goessling of The Minnesota Star Tribune reports.
Analysis: O'Connell essentially doubled down on the comments he offered Tuesday while speaking with KFAN FM 100.3, as Alec Lewis of The Athletic reports. Per Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com, O'Connell specified Wednesday that there is nothing left for McCarthy to do to prove his health, an indication that the second-year pro will not only practice in full but also return to the starting lineup on the road against Detroit after having been inactive for Minnesota's prior five contests due to a right high-ankle…read more
Published: Wed, Oct 29 at 12:19pm by Rotowire.com
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Preparing for Week 9 start
Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell said that he anticipates McCarthy (ankle) having a full week of prep before returning to a starting role Sunday in Detroit, Alec Lewis of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: McCarthy has been inactive for Minnesota's last five games while tending to a right high-ankle sprain, but he's displayed some progress ever since the Vikings' Week 6 bye. With the benefit of a longer turnaround this week following a loss to the Chargers last Thursday, McCarthy appears poised for full participation when the Vikings return to the practice field Wednesday. Veteran Carson Wentz had been productive while filling in for McCarthy in his first three starts, but he was inaccurate and…read more
Published: Tue, Oct 28 at 10:00am by Rotowire.com
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Will start Week 9 if healthy
Coach Kevin O'Connell said after Thursday night's loss to the Chargers that McCarthy (ankle) will start Week 9 against the Lions if he's healthy, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: McCarthy hasn't played since Week 2, as Carson Wentz has started each of the Vikings' last five contests. However, Wentz -- who has been playing through a painful left (non-throwing) shoulder issue -- was sacked five times Thursday and looked defeated at the end of the loss to the Chargers, as he was pressured and hit relentlessly by the Los Angeles defense. The Vikings have dropped two games in a row and three of the last four with Wentz at quarterback. McCarthy has been logging limited…read more
Published: Thu, Oct 23 at 9:39pm by Rotowire.com
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Serving as emergency QB again
McCarthy (ankle) is listed as inactive Thursday at the Chargers but will be available as the emergency third quarterback, Ben Goessling of The Minnesota Star Tribune reports.
Analysis: McCarthy thus won't be active for a fifth consecutive game due to his ongoing recovery from a high right-ankle sprain, but his standing as the emergency third QB for a second straight contest gives him a chance to play if both starter Carson Wentz and backup Max Brosmer leave Thursday's matchup due to injuries. McCarthy himself has put together back-to-back weeks of limited on-field work, and coach Kevin O'Connell even told Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com that the second-year quarterback's workout…read more
Published: Thu, Oct 23 at 3:51pm by Rotowire.com
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Officially questionable for Week 8
McCarthy (ankle) is listed as questionable for Thursday's game at the Chargers.
Analysis: Coach Kevin O'Connell announced Tuesday that McCarthy was slated to serve as the emergency third quarterback Week 8 for a second consecutive contest, meaning he'll be inactive and designated as such once the Vikings post their list about 90 minutes before Thursday's 8:15 p.m. ET kickoff. O'Connell also told Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com that McCarthy's on-field workout Tuesday was "just not there" but could have been if Minnesota had a Sunday game on tap. In any case, Carson Wentz (left shoulder)…read more
Published: Wed, Oct 22 at 1:26pm by Rotowire.com
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Not ready to start Week 8
Head coach Kevin O'Connell announced that McCarthy (ankle) will be inactive as the Vikings' emergency No. 3 quarterback for Thursday's game against the Chargers.
Analysis: McCarthy was able to turn in three limited practices last week, but the Vikings chose to keep him inactive for this past Sunday's loss to the Eagles while he continues to recover from a right high-ankle sprain. Per Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com, O'Connell noted that McCarthy displayed some progress in an on-field workout Tuesday and might have had a shot at playing Week 8 if the Vikings had a Sunday game, but the coach conceded that the young signal-caller is "just not there" yet. As a result,…read more
Published: Tue, Oct 21 at 12:00pm by Rotowire.com
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Listed as limited Monday
McCarthy (ankle) was listed as limited on Monday's estimated injury report, Craig Peters of the Vikings' official site reports.
Analysis: McCarthy has been sidelined since he suffered a right high-ankle sprain during a Week 2 loss to the Falcons, but he was able to practice in a limited capacity all of last week, which marked his first notable on-field work in more than a month. Replacement starting quarterback Carson Wentz also was listed as limited Monday due to his lingering left shoulder injury, but at this stage, he appears to be the better bet to continue leading Minnesota's offense Thursday at the Chargers, especially…read more
Published: Mon, Oct 20 at 3:02pm by Rotowire.com
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Inactive as third quarterback
McCarthy (ankle) is inactive as the Vikings' emergency No. 3 quarterback for Sunday's game against the Eagles.
Analysis: Following the Vikings' Week 6 bye, McCarthy was able to return to practice this week for the first time since suffering a right high-ankle sprain in a Sept. 14 loss to the Falcons. However, McCarthy practiced Wednesday through Friday only on a limited basis, prompting the Vikings to hold him out for another week while Carson Wentz starts and Max Brosmer serves as his top backup. The Vikings plan to hold off on a decision on a permanent starter at quarterback until McCarthy is 100 percent…read more
Published: Sun, Oct 19 at 8:32am by Rotowire.com
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Emergency third QB for Week 7
McCarthy (ankle) will work as the emergency third quarterback for Sunday's game against the Eagles, Dane Mizutani of the Pioneer Press reports.
Analysis: McCarthy's listed as questionable due to an ankle injury, but he isn't expected to see game action even if given the green light to suit up, as Carson Wentz will retain the starting job and Max Brosmer will dress as Wentz's backup. McCarthy hasn't played since Week 2 due to a high right-ankle sprain, and the offense has looked more effective with Wentz under center, so Minnesota will let McCarthy work his way back to full health before putting him back into consideration for the starting job.
Published: Fri, Oct 17 at 12:22pm by Rotowire.com
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Stays limited in practice
McCarthy (ankle) practiced on a limited basis Thursday.
Analysis: McCarthy continues to operate with a cap on his practice reps after getting back onto the field for the first time since sustaining a high right-ankle sprain Week 2 versus the Falcons. Coach Kevin O'Connell previously said McCarthy would need to put together a week of full sessions in order to start, but he also relayed to Alec Lewis of The Athletic on Wednesday that he wasn't ready to name a starter between McCarthy and Carson Wentz (shoulder), the latter of whom has been a full practice…read more
Published: Thu, Oct 16 at 2:49pm by Rotowire.com
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Officially limited in return to practice
McCarthy (ankle) was limited at practice Wednesday.
Analysis: McCarthy thus has logged an official practice for the first time since suffering a high right-ankle sprain Week 2 against the Falcons. Coach Kevin O'Connell told Alec Lewis of The Athletic earlier Wednesday that both McCarthy and Carson Wentz (shoulder) were slated to take part in drills coming out of the Vikings' Week 6 bye, but he also wasn't ready to name a starting quarterback for Sunday's game against the Eagles. Wentz himself was a full participant Wednesday, so he appears to be a step…read more
Published: Wed, Oct 15 at 3:35pm by Rotowire.com
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Starter for Week 7 TBD
Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell said both McCarthy (ankle) and Carson Wentz (shoulder) will participate in practice Wednesday but declined to name a starter for Sunday's game against the Eagles, Alec Lewis of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: McCarthy returned to practice Monday, coming off Minnesota's bye, for the first time since suffering a right high-ankle sprain Sept. 14. O'Connell had previously indicated that McCarthy would require a full week of practice before being cleared for a return to the lineup, but it remains to be seen whether Wentz might have a chance to retain the No. 1 gig in the event that both quarterbacks are healthy enough to play. Wentz, for his part, is managing an injury to his left, non-throwing shoulder,…read more
Published: Wed, Oct 15 at 12:13pm by Rotowire.com
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Returns to practice
McCarthy (ankle) participated in practice Monday first time since suffering a right high-ankle sprain Sept. 14, Andrew Krammer of The Minnesota Star Tribune reports.
Analysis: While head coach Kevin O'Connell has not named a starting quarterback for Sunday's game against the Eagles, he previously said McCarthy would need a full week of practice in order to gain clearance to play. Meanwhile Carson Wentz was also able to practice Monday, despite nursing a sore non-throwing shoulder. If McCarthy is able to practice without major limitations all week, he could return to the starting job.
Published: Mon, Oct 13 at 6:49pm by Rotowire.com
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Will practice this week
Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell said that McCarthy (ankle) will practice in some capacity ahead of the Sunday's matchup with the Eagles, Alec Lewis of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: McCarthy reportedly took a notable step forward in his recovery during Minnesota's Week 6 bye, but it remains to be seen whether the second-year pro will be healthy enough that his mobility isn't impeded for Week 7, which is a benchmark O'Connell has mentioned he'll need to pass before being cleared for a return to the lineup. Previously, O'Connell had indicated that the Vikings want McCarthy to log a full week of practice before clearing him. Per Ben Goessling of The Minnesota Star Tribune,…read more
Published: Mon, Oct 13 at 10:49am by Rotowire.com
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Status still uncertain for Week 7
McCarthy (ankle) was able to get in some "good work" on the field during the Vikings' Week 6 bye, but he's still not considered 100 percent healthy and is uncertain to be available for the team's Week 7 game against the Eagles, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: Peliserro notes that McCarthy will reclaim starting quarterback duties for the Vikings once he's considered ready for game action, but the second-year signal-caller still has a few hurdles to clear before stepping back in under center for Minnesota. McCarthy is expected to be ready to practice in some fashion during the upcoming week for the first time since suffering a right high-ankle sprain in a Sept. 14 loss to Atlanta, but he'll need to prove that his mobility isn't affected by the injury…read more
Published: Sun, Oct 12 at 7:12am by Rotowire.com
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Ready for on-field work
Head coach Kevin O'Connell said Monday that McCarthy (ankle) will get "extensive work" on the field while the Vikings are on bye Week 6, Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Assuming McCarthy's right high-ankle sprain responds well to the on-field activity over the next few days, the second-year quarterback is expected to be reintegrated into practices in Week 7 following a three-week absence. Veteran Carson Wentz started in each of the last three games while McCarthy has been sidelined and led Minnesota to a 2-1 record, but Wentz's status is now in question after he was briefly forced out of this past Sunday's win over the Browns with a left shoulder injury.…read more
Published: Tue, Oct 7 at 2:17pm by Rotowire.com
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Remains out for Week 5
McCarthy (ankle), who has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Browns in London, didn't practice Friday due to rainy conditions, Alec Lewis The Athletic reports. "We wanted to be smart with that," head coach Kevin O'Connell said, regarding McCarthy's continued absence from practice. "But I'm very much looking forward to spending some time with him next week. We'll see where he's at coming out of the [Week 6] bye."
Analysis: The Vikings were hopeful McCarthy would be able to return to practice this week, but he still hasn't taken part in any on-field work since sustaining a right high-ankle sprain in the team's Week 2 loss to the Falcons. With McCarthy still sidelined, Carson Wentz is slated to draw a third straight start at quarterback Sunday. O'Connell has previously said McCarthy will need a full week of practice before he can return to action, though it's not clear if the second-year signal-caller will regain…read more
Published: Sat, Oct 4 at 6:14am by Rotowire.com
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Ruled out for Sunday
The Viking have ruled out McCarthy (ankle) for Sunday's game against the Browns in London.
Analysis: With McCarthy still sidelined due to a right high-ankle sprain, Carson Wentz is slated to draw a third straight start at quarterback while working behind a shorthanded offensive line. McCarthy -- who last played Week 2 -- will thus target a potential return to action Oct. 19 against the Eagles, following the Vikings' Week 6 bye.
Published: Fri, Oct 3 at 6:12am by Rotowire.com
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Remains sidelined for practice
McCarthy (ankle) didn't participate in Thursday's practice, Dane Mizutani of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.
Analysis: Though he wasn't donning a jersey like his healthy teammates, McCarthy was spotted on the practice field during warmups Thursday and was doing some throwing. However, until McCarthy is taking reps under center and mixing into drills, his return to game action shouldn't be viewed as imminent. McCarthy appears on track to be ruled out for a third straight game ahead of Sunday's matchup with the Browns in London, but the second-year signal-caller could have a more realistic chance at being…read more
Published: Thu, Oct 2 at 7:23am by Rotowire.com
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Not practicing Wednesday
McCarthy (ankle) was not spotted at the portion of Wednesday's practice open to the media, Dane Mizutani of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.
Analysis: Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell said the "hope is soon" that McCarthy will be "back on an individual level," per Alec Lewis of The Athletic. That said, O'Connell noted that he "probably would not expose [McCarthy] to the look team" in the immediate future, a signal that the second-year quarterback doesn't have a very real chance to be available for Sunday's game against the Browns in London. McCarthy hasn't yet been ruled out for Week 5, but even if active, it's likely he would operate in a…read more
Published: Wed, Oct 1 at 9:15am by Rotowire.com
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May be ready to practice this week
Head coach Kevin O'Connell suggested Tuesday that McCarthy (ankle) could be ready to resume practicing this week, Craig Peters of the Vikings' official site reports. "My hope is ... maybe not necessarily early on - we're going to handle Wednesday, probably in a unique way, from what could be kind of a hybrid day, but as we get into Thursday and Friday, I'm hoping we can at least get him out there and get him taking some drops and starting to get back in the normal rhythm of the practice week," O'Connell said of McCarthy. "It will all depend on kind of where he's at with the benchmarks of being able to go out there and start moving around a little bit."
Analysis: O'Connell didn't comment on McCarthy's potential availability for Sunday's game against the Browns in London, but since the second-year signal-caller isn't expected to be ready to handle full reps with the first-team offense during the week, he'll likely be ticketed for a backup role if he's active in Week 5. Carson Wentz has started under center the last two games, leading the Vikings to a 1-1 record while completing 44 of 66 passes for 523 yards (7.9 YPA), four touchdowns and two…read more
Published: Tue, Sep 30 at 8:11am by Rotowire.com
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Could practice next week
McCarthy (ankle) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Steelers in Dublin, but he could get some limited work in practice next week ahead of Minnesota's Week 5 game in London against the Browns, Ben Goessling of The Minnesota Star Tribune reports.
Analysis: Though McCarthy may take some on-field reps next week, head coach Kevin O'Connell has suggested that the second-year signal-caller will need to turn in a full week of full practices before being cleared to play. As a result, McCarthy appears likely to miss a third straight game in Week 5 before potentially returning to action following a Week 6 bye. Carson Wentz should continue to direct the Minnesota offense in McCarthy's absence.
Published: Fri, Sep 26 at 3:04pm by Rotowire.com
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Won't play in Week 4
Coach Kevin O'Connell said Monday that McCarthy (ankle) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Steelers in Dublin, Ireland, Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Beyond McCarthy's lack of availability Week 4, O'Connell also noted, "First and foremost, he's got to get healthy. And then, I don't think it's one of those things where it's, hey, he's healthy the night before a game, we're going to throw him out there and say, 'Hey, go figure it out' type of thing." McCarthy emerged from a Week 2 loss to the Falcons with a high right ankle sprain and sat out this past Sunday's win against the Bengals, which allowed Carson Wentz to lead the Vikings offense.…read more
Published: Mon, Sep 22 at 4:16pm by Rotowire.com
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Out of walking boot
McCarthy (ankle) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Bengals, but he was without a walking boot in the locker room Friday, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. "We're kind of through the initial wave of that, as far as getting the swelling down and all those things," said head coach Kevin O'Connell.
Analysis: McCarthy suffered a right high-ankle sprain in last week's loss to Atlanta, and reports have him missing 2-to-4 weeks. He won't be placed on injured reserve, according to the Pioneer Press, but the timetable for his return is uncertain. While his walking without a boot on his ankle is an encouraging sign, he could be held out until Week 7 if the team wants to be cautious, with the Vikings playing overseas Weeks 4 (Sept. 28 versus the Steelers in Dublin) and 5 (Oct. 5 versus the Browns in…read more
Published: Sat, Sep 20 at 8:19am by Rotowire.com
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Likely out at least two weeks
McCarthy (ankle) is expected to miss 2-to-4 weeks after sustaining a right high-ankle sprain in Sunday's 22-6 loss to the Falcons, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
Analysis: The Vikings haven't provided an official timeline for McCarthy's return from the injury, but Carson Wentz will be in line to start at quarterback for at least this Sunday's game against the Bengals. Schefter notes that because the Vikings are playing overseas Weeks 4 (Sept. 28 versus the Steelers in Dublin) and 5 (Oct. 5 versus the Browns in London) before heading into a bye Week 6, the team could be inclined to err on the side of caution and hold McCarthy out for the next three games to give…read more
Published: Tue, Sep 16 at 9:05am by Rotowire.com
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Week-to-week due to sprained ankle
McCarthy is considered week-to-week after he sustained a high-ankle sprain during Sunday's 22-6 loss to the Falcons, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: McCarthy didn't fare well in Week 2, completing 11 of 21 passes for 158 yards, no touchdowns and two interceptions, turning five carries into 25 yards and losing one of his three fumbles, and now he appears to be headed for some time off. O'Connell told Alec Lewis of The Athletic that Minnesota will get backup QB Carson Wentz ready for Sunday's game against the Bengals in the event McCarthy is inactive.
Published: Mon, Sep 15 at 12:08pm by Rotowire.com
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Status TBD with sprained ankle
Coach Kevin O'Connell said Monday that McCarthy has a sprained ankle, and it's unclear if he'll be available Sunday against the Bengals, Alec Lewis of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: McCarthy had a rough Week 2, completing 11 of 21 passes for 158 yards, no touchdowns and two interceptions while turning five carries into 25 yards and losing one of his three fumbles during Sunday's 22-6 loss to the Falcons. If McCarthy ends up missing Week 3, veteran Carson Wentz is in line to step in and lead the Vikings offense.
Published: Mon, Sep 15 at 11:49am by Rotowire.com
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Can't replicate last week's magic
McCarthy completed 11 of 21 pass attempts for 158 yards, no touchdowns and two interceptions while taking five carries for 25 yards with a lost fumble in Sunday's 22-6 loss to Atlanta.
Analysis: McCarthy struggled out of the gates like he did for three quarters in his pro debut last week, but he was unable to replicate the fourth-quarter heroics we saw against the Bears in a crushing loss to the Falcons on Sunday Night Football. The 22-year-old looked like a true rookie on the field, throwing two interceptions and putting three balls on the ground (mercifully, losing possession of only one). We have now seen seven poor quarters of play, one eye-opening quarter and a 1-1 record from…read more
Published: Sun, Sep 14 at 9:09pm by Rotowire.com
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Leads comeback victory Monday
McCarthy completed 13 of 20 passes for 143 yards with two touchdowns and one interception while adding two carries for 25 yards and another score in the Vikings' 27-24 win over the Bears on Monday night. He also threw a two-point conversion pass.
Analysis: Making his long-awaited regular-season debut, McCarthy mostly scuffled through the first three quarters before igniting a 21-point outburst in the final period. The 2024 first-round pick connected with Justin Jefferson and Aaron Jones for fourth-quarter touchdown passes of 13 and 27 yards, respectively, and he followed those scoring strikes with a 14-yard touchdown run to extend Minnesota's 20-17 lead at the 2:53 mark of the fourth quarter. McCarthy also completed a two-point conversion to Adam…read more
Published: Mon, Sep 8 at 8:50pm by Rotowire.com
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Won't face Patriots
Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell said Thursday that McCarthy will not suit up for Saturday's preseason contest against New England.
Analysis: McCarthy played one drive during Minnesota's preseason opener against the Texans, completing four of seven passes for 30 yards while rushing once for eight yards, but Sam Howell will get the start versus the Patriots. During the Vikings' exhibition finale versus Tennessee on Friday, Aug. 22, McCarthy could get a chance to handle more reps. Justin Jefferson (hamstring) remains absent from practice but will be re-evaluated next week, while Jordan Addison (suspension) will be eligible to play the…read more
Published: Thu, Aug 14 at 1:09pm by Rotowire.com
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Plays one drive Saturday
McCarthy completed four of seven passes for 30 yards and added eight yards on his only carry in Saturday's 20-10 preseason win over the Texans.
Analysis: Seeing his first NFL game action since undergoing knee surgery in August 2024, McCarthy played just one possession and led the Vikings to a field goal, with his longest completion going for 18 yards to Jordan Addison. Neither Justin Jefferson (hamstring) nor T.J. Hockenson (leg) suited up for Saturday's contest, and whatever chemistry McCarthy develops with Addison will get shelved until Week 4 due to the wideout's looming suspension, but the top priority for the young QB this preseason is just…read more
Published: Sat, Aug 9 at 6:13pm by Rotowire.com
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Set to play Saturday
McCarthy is slated to start Saturday's preseason opener against the Texans, Steven Louis Goldstein of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: This will mark McCarthy's first game action since he tore the meniscus in his right knee in his first NFL preseason contest last year. With Sam Darnold no longer in the mix, the 2024 first-rounder is on track to begin the coming campaign as the Vikings' starting QB. As for Saturday, it remains to be seen how many snaps McCarthy will see, but for context, Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com notes that Darnold played the first series of the 2024 preseason opener, 12 snaps in total, before giving way to…read more
Published: Sat, Aug 9 at 11:29am by Rotowire.com
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In line to play preseason opener
McCarthy is expected to play in Saturday's preseason game against the Texans, Ben Goessling of The Minnesota Star Tribune reports.
Analysis: McCarthy's workload in Minnesota's exhibition opener is to be determined. Beyond that, as coach Kevin O'Connell told Goessling, the Vikings "will more than likely" focus on a joint practice with the Patriots next Wednesday, Aug. 13 and then hold out McCarthy in the ensuing preseason contest with New England on Saturday, Aug. 16. How McCarthy looks after that point will determine whether or not he sees game action in the final preseason contest Friday, Aug. 22 at Tennessee.
Published: Mon, Aug 4 at 3:33pm by Rotowire.com
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No issues with knee
McCarthy has been participating in spring practices without any issues in his surgically repaired knee, Ben Goessling of The Minnesota Star Tribune reports.
Analysis: Coming back from a meniscus tear suffered last summer, McCarthy resumed on-field work in January, setting him up for a normal offseason. As expected, he had no limitations during OTAs and then passed his physical at the start of June minicamp. With Sam Howell and Brett Rypien being the veteran quarterbacks on Minnesota's roster, McCarthy doesn't appear to have any competition for the Week 1 starting job. He's in a great situation under coach Kevin O'Connell, throwing passes to Justin Jefferson,…read more
Published: Thu, Jun 12 at 1:01pm by Rotowire.com
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No limitations at voluntary OTAs
Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell said Monday at the start of Minnesota's voluntary OTAs that McCarthy (knee) will participate in "full" with "no limitations," Alec Lewis of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: The 2024 first-round pick missed his entire rookie campaign due to a torn meniscus that he was diagnosed with just after his preseason debut, but after the quarterback resumed on-field work in January, O'Connell said McCarthy is now "ready to hit the ground running" with no training limitations, per Ben Goessling of The Minnesota Star Tribune. Despite McCarthy not being able to log any regular-season action as a rookie, Minnesota's confidence in the young-signal caller was high enough for the…read more
Published: Mon, Apr 21 at 11:01am by Rotowire.com
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Appears locked in as starter
The Vikings have rejected multiple trade calls on McCarthy (knee) this offseason and aren't pursuing Aaron Rodgers in free agency, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: Minnesota is still expected to sign a veteran quarterback after losing Sam Darnold and Nick Mullens last week, but it won't be someone that represents a serious threat to take the starting job from McCarthy. The 10th overall pick from the 2024 NFL Draft appeared be pressing Darnold for the starting gig last summer after throwing for 188 yards and two touchdowns in his preseason debut, only to be diagnosed with a torn meniscus a few days later. McCarthy had season-ending surgery in mid-August…read more
Published: Wed, Mar 19 at 6:42am by Rotowire.com
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Left atop depth chart
McCarthy (knee) is positioned as Minnesota's starting quarterback after Sam Darnold and Daniel Jones left in free agency, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: The Vikings may still bring in a veteran quarterback, but anyone they acquire at this point likely would just be a backup. Reports suggest the Vikings had interest in retaining Darnold or Jones but ultimately weren't wiling to pay as much as other teams. That can be taken as a sign of confidence in McCarthy, who missed his entire rookie season with a meniscus tear after playing well in his lone preseason appearance. The 10th overall pick from last year's draft resumed on-field work this winter…read more
Published: Tue, Mar 11 at 8:10am by Rotowire.com
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Has resumed on-field work
Coach Kevin O'Connell said Thursday that McCarthy (knee) has resumed on-field work and is "right where we hoped he would be" in advance of the offseason, Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: The Vikings drafted McCarthy with the 10th overall pick in last year's draft, likely with the expectation that he would see game action during his rookie campaign. He in fact experienced live action football, but a promising pro debut in the preseason on Aug. 10 was followed by news a few days later that he tore the meniscus in his right knee and was out for the season. McCarthy thus spent the year on injured reserve, while watching journeyman Sam Darnold have a career season. Darnold will be…read more
Published: Thu, Jan 16 at 11:34am by Rotowire.com
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Undergoes another surgery
McCarthy underwent a procedure on his right knee this week after an increase in his rehab work caused some swelling, Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: In the wake of a successful preseason debut back on Aug. 10, McCarthy reported soreness in his right knee, and he eventually was diagnosed with a torn meniscus, which required surgery Aug. 14. Considering he was placed on injured reserve before Week 1, the rookie first-round pick isn't eligible to play this season, so getting him healthy will be a priority for the Vikings as he heads into his first full offseason. In the meantime, the Vikings will continue to entrust the offense to quarterback…read more
Published: Wed, Nov 13 at 11:22am by Rotowire.com
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Placed on season-ending IR
The Vikings placed McCarthy (knee) on injured reserve Friday.
Analysis: Minnesota signed quarterback Matt Corral in a corresponding transaction. Head coach Kevin O'Connell had already ruled McCarthy, the No. 10 overall pick in April's draft, out for the season, so his official placement on injured reserve was expected. McCarthy will turn his attention to making a recovery from the surgery he underwent Wednesday to make a full repair of the meniscus in his right knee, while the Vikings turn to Sam Darnold as the Week 1 starter. Corral joins Nick Mullens and…read more
Published: Fri, Aug 16 at 1:18pm by Rotowire.com
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Will miss entire rookie season
Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell announced that McCarthy underwent season-ending surgery Wednesday to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee.
Analysis: The Vikings had some hope that the rookie No. 10 overall pick would only need his meniscus trimmed, an operation that would've allowed him to return in 2024. Instead, surgeons ended up doing a full repair of the meniscus, likely leaving McCarthy with a recovery timeline of 4-to-6 months. With McCarthy's rookie season now completely wiped out, Sam Darnold is set to start Week 1 for the Vikings and potentially hold down the top spot on the depth chart throughout the season. Minnesota could look…read more
Published: Wed, Aug 14 at 10:52am by Rotowire.com
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Severity of knee injury TBD
McCarthy (knee) has a tear in his meniscus in his right knee, but the severity of the injury won't be determined until he undergoes surgery, Andrew Krammer of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.
Analysis: McCarthy is set to miss extended time, but an exact timeline "will be something determined during the procedure," according to head coach Kevin O'Connell. If the quarterback is dealing with a small tear, he may be able to address it with a cleanup surgery, but a full repair would mean a longer recovery, Ben Goessling of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. O'Connell also added that the team will ultimately do "what's best for the long-term health of J.J." Sam Darnold appears set to begin the…read more
Published: Tue, Aug 13 at 5:02pm by Rotowire.com
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Expected to undergo knee surgery
McCarthy (knee) is expected to undergo knee surgery to address a meniscus issue after having an MRI on Monday, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
Analysis: McCarthy reported knee soreness over the weekend, and the MRI he underwent Monday revealed an issue serious enough to require surgery. Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports that McCarthy will require either a meniscus trim, which would carry a recovery timeline of at least a few weeks, or a repair which could sideline the rookie quarterback multiple months. Even if McCarthy is able to make a rapid return, Sam Darnold now has a clear path to the Week 1 starting gig for Minnesota.
Published: Tue, Aug 13 at 9:35am by Rotowire.com
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Nursing knee soreness
McCarthy (knee) is not practicing Monday, and it is unclear if he will travel to Cleveland for joint practices, Dane Mizutani of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.
Analysis: McCarthy excelled during his preseason debut to the tune of two passing touchdowns and 188 yards through the air. The rookie also completed 11 of 17 passes and finished with a 116.8 passer rating. It is unclear how serious his knee soreness is, but it would not be surprising to see the Vikings exercise caution with the 10th overall pick in this year's draft. If McCarthy ultimately misses more practice time, Sam Darnold would presumably get all of the first-team reps while Nick Mullens and Jaren…read more
Published: Mon, Aug 12 at 4:48pm by Rotowire.com
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Two TD passes in pro debut
McCarthy was 11-for-17 passing for 188 yards with two touchdowns and an interception in Saturday's preseason win over Las Vegas.
Analysis: McCarthy threw an interception on a rushed throw under pressure on his first drive in his pro debut, but he settled down thereafter and was sharp with a 116.8 passer rating. Most of his production came in the second half against the second- and third-string defense, but he threw nice deep balls on touchdown passes of 45 and 33 yards. Sam Darnold played just the first series on offense as he remains the favorite to start Week 1. However, McCarthy showed he could be a factor earlier rather than…read more
Published: Sat, Aug 10 at 7:22pm by Rotowire.com
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Set for significant action Saturday
Coach Kevin O'Connell said Thursday that McCarthy will get "a significant amount of work" during Saturday's preseason game against the Raiders, but that Sam Darnold will start at quarterback, Ben Goessling of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.
Analysis: McCarthy may or may not get a chance to work with the first-team offense after Darnold on Saturday, but in any case it sounds like the rookie first-round pick will get plenty of opportunities to display his talents. Though McCarthy has ceded the majority of first-team reps to Darnold to start training camp, the expectation is for that split to grow more even as the regular season approaches. Darnold remains the favorite to start Week 1 against the Giants, but a strong preseason showing by…read more
Published: Thu, Aug 8 at 12:17pm by Rotowire.com
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More reps coming in August
Coach Kevin O'Connell said Tuesday that McCarthy will get more first-team reps later in training camp, Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Sam Darnold dominated first-team reps throughout the offseason and now into the first week of training camp, making him the favorite to start Week 1 even though McCarthy was drafted 10th overall in April. McCarthy will eventually get more work with the starters, which also will allow the coaches to see how Darnold looks without Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison to lean on. While fantasy players might be anticipating a QB battle, it sounds like O'Connell is currently more concerned with…read more
Published: Tue, Jul 30 at 12:20pm by Rotowire.com
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