With the new NFL season just around the corner, bad news arrives for the Minnesota Vikings and their rookie QB, J.J. McCarthy, after their first preseason match against Las Vegas Raiders.

In the debut, the Vikings defeated the Raiders with a solid performance from their rookie QB, who completed 11 of 17 passes (64.7%) for 188 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception.

However, despite his strong performance on Saturday, the former Michigan Wolverine began experiencing intense knee discomfort, which led to further tests to assess his condition.

McCarthy reported knee soreness over the weekend and underwent an MRI on Monday night. Ultimately, the results were not as hoped. The player suffered a tear in his right meniscus and will need to undergo surgery, which will require an extended recovery period.

J.J. McCarthy #9 of the Minnesota Vikings throws the ball during Minnesota Vikings mandatory minicamp at Twin Cities Orthopedics Performance Center on June 04, 2024 in Eagan, Minnesota.

Unfortunately, one of the top prospects this year in the NFL will not be able to showcase his full talent at the start of the season, marking a significant loss for the Minnesota Vikings.

HC Kevin O’Connell’s thoughts on McCarthy’s situation

With the rookie McCarthy’s situation now known, the Vikings’ head coach spoke to the press and shared his feelings about the QB’s situation.

“We’ll continue to evaluate him and run more tests. He’s a very important player, obviously, so we want to make sure we’re smart before he participates, ensuring we have a good understanding of where he stands.”

McCarthy’s replacement

With the injury to rookie QB J.J. McCarthy now public knowledge, it seems his position as starter is no longer an option. Consequently, the staff has already identified his replacement, who will be none other than the experienced Sam Darnold.

The former New York Jets player expected to start as a backup, but this situation requires him to take over as the Vikings’ starting quarterback immediately.
Sam Darnold #14 of the Minnesota Vikings participates in a drill during training camp on August 02, 2024 in Eagan, Minnesota.

A series of serious injuries

J.J. McCarthy’s recent injury adds to a long list of players who will not be able to start the new NFL season with their teams. Here is a review of the affected players:

  • Detroit Lions RB Jahmyr Gibbs, hamstring
  • Kansas City Chiefs WR Marquise “Hollywood” Brown, sternoclavicular joint
  • San Francisco 49ers RB Christian McCaffrey, calf
  • New York Giants WR Malik Nabers, ankle
  • Atlanta Falcons WR Rondale Moore, knee