Vikings HC Kevin O’Connell provides important injury update on JJ McCarthy’s new teammate

JJ McCarthy will finally make his debut as the starting quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings next NFL season, a moment he has been anticipating for a long time. As the preparatory weeks progress, he hopes to have most of his teammates healthy and ready, a sentiment shared by head coach Kevin O’Connell.

After several seasons with the Indianapolis Colts, Will Fries decided to seek a fresh start in his career and joined the Vikings, a contender in the NFC North. Unfortunately for him, he suffered a fractured right tibia in Week 5 last season, but that didn’t stop him from ultimately landing on McCarthy’s team.

Regarding his return to the field, the organization is hopeful to have the talented guard back much earlier than expected, head coach O’Connell told the press.

“We’re being really smart, just with the injury that it was and once we were able to get him in and get a feel for that,” he said. “Knowing how we handle the spring, I don’t know if we’ll see him fully active this spring, but I have no hesitation to say that I’m really excited to see him when he’s able to get out there.

Will Fries #75 of the Indianapolis Colts is carted off the field during the second half of a game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Stadium on October 06, 2024 in Jacksonville, Florida.

“More than likely training camp, but there’s still a chance we could see him in some bits and pieces of work over the next two weeks. But he’s in a good spot.”

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What can we expect from the Vikings next season?

JJ McCarthy is set to make his highly anticipated debut as the Vikings’ starting quarterback after recovering from a serious injury. All eyes will be on the young signal-caller as he begins a new chapter under center in Minnesota.

With Sam Darnold no longer on the roster, the team is fully committed to McCarthy leading the offense. The Vikings aim to rise above division rivals like the Lions, Packers, and Bears in a competitive NFC North race.

After falling short last season, Minnesota is determined to take a step forward. With a healthy roster and renewed focus, their goal is clear: contend for the Super Bowl.