Minnesota Vikings rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy will undergo knee surgery to repair a torn meniscus, which has caused him to miss practice and raises uncertainty about his availability for the upcoming season. The team will not know the extent of the surgery until after it is performed, which will determine the length of his recovery period. Head coach Kevin O’Connell stated that McCarthy had reported knee soreness to the medical staff, prompting further testing and ultimately leading to the decision for surgery.
If McCarthy is sidelined for an extended period of time, this will solidify Sam Darnold’s position as the starting quarterback for the Vikings and the likely starter for their Week 1 matchup against the New York Giants. Despite the setback, McCarthy expressed his gratitude and optimism to Vikings fans on social media, promising a quick return to the field. The rookie had been impressive in preseason play, showcasing his abilities in a game against the Las Vegas Raiders where he threw for two touchdowns and rushed for 18 yards.
Prior to the injury, McCarthy was expected to receive more first-team reps in practice, as he looked to build on his strong performance in the preseason opener. However, the knee issue has put those plans on hold and forced him to undergo surgery to address the torn meniscus. In his absence, the Vikings will rely on Darnold as their primary quarterback, with Nick Mullens and Jaren Hall also in training camp as additional options.
The recovery timeline for McCarthy remains uncertain, as the doctors will need to assess the extent of the damage during the surgery before determining the next steps. Whether the meniscus can be trimmed or fully repaired will impact the length of his absence, with both options requiring different recovery periods. While the Vikings will face challenges in adjusting to McCarthy’s absence, they remain focused on preparing for the upcoming season and ensuring that their quarterback depth chart is ready for any scenario that may arise.
Despite the setback, McCarthy remains confident and determined to return to the field as soon as possible, expressing his love and appreciation for the support he has received from Viking nation. While the injury presents a challenge for the rookie quarterback and the team, they are committed to his recovery and look forward to his eventual return. In the meantime, the Vikings will continue to evaluate their options at the quarterback position and make necessary adjustments to maximize their chances of success in the upcoming season.
