“Truly the only stat I care about is going 1-0,” McCarthy told reporters once the game concluded. “I (couldn’t) care less how we get it done. At the end of the day, you want to perform well.

“You want to execute well. It’s one of those things where if the running backs are getting their touches and getting their touchdowns, I’m as happy as I can be. Whether I’m throwing the touchdowns, I’m as happy as I can be. At the end of the day, all that matters is getting that victory.”

Joining an already established team can often be challenging. Nevertheless, McCarthy expressed his gratitude for the support he received from everyone in the Giants organization, which helped him deliver such an impressive debut as a starter.

“I just give so much credit to the coaches, Jameis, Jake and Jaxson for helping me out the second I walked in the door,” McCarthy said. “All credit goes to everyone in that building for helping me get prepared for this game.”

McCarthy’s outstanding performance

In his very first start under center, J.J. McCarthy played a super solid, mistake-free game to lead Big Blue to an overtime victory against the Texans. He completed 20 of 28 passes (a smooth 71.4% completion rate) for 252 yards, earning a crisp 99.1 passer rating.

While he didn’t throw any touchdown passes or interceptions, he managed the offense smoothly, made timely throws, and proved he could protect the ball when it mattered most.

Giants are already looking ahead to what’s next

The Giants get a well-deserved breather in Week 8 with their Bye Week, giving them time to rest up before heading into back-to-back divisional battles. They hit the road in Week 9 to face the rival Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on Sunday, November 8. Shortly after, they’ll turn around for a quick Thursday night turnaround in Week 10, returning home to MetLife Stadium to host the Washington Commanders on Thursday, November 12.

Key takeaways

• J.J. McCarthy praised coaches and teammates like Jameis Winston and Jaxson Dart after winning his debut.
• 20 completed passes on 28 attempts gave J.J. McCarthy 252 passing yards and a 99.1 rating.
• The New York Giants enter their Week 8 bye before facing the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 9.

McCarthy earned the nod after rallying the offense and displaying elite poise in the pocket during last Sunday’s comeback push. Harbaugh noted that McCarthy has mastered the offensive installation and gives the 3-2-1 Giants the highest ceiling to execute their game plan down the stretch. Facing a fast Houston defense led by edge rusher Will Anderson Jr., McCarthy’s mobility, quick processing, and arm strength will be central to New York’s game plan.

With a streamlined backfield featuring Tyrone Tracy Jr. and Cam Skattebo behind him, the coaching staff is confident in McCarthy’s ability to command the huddle and distribute the football efficiently in a tough road environment.

Who is the Giants’ backup QB?

With McCarthy officially taking over the starting role, veteran quarterback Jameis Winston shifts into the backup QB position for the Giants. Winston, who filled in as the starter over the previous four games following Jaxson Dart’s injury, moves to QB2 on the depth chart.

Despite losing the starting spot, Winston immediately accepted his new role with veteran leadership, expressing full commitment to supporting McCarthy and keeping the unit prepared.

Will J.J. McCarthy start for Giants vs Texans?

Yes. Elevating J.J. McCarthy allows offensive coordinator Matt Nagy to expand the playbook with more RPO concepts, bootlegs, and downfield play-action passes. McCarthy’s ability to throw on the run creates vertical mismatches for receivers like Malik Nabers, giving New York a more dynamic offensive identity against Houston.

If McCarthy protects the football and avoids costly early-down sacks, his official debut as QB1 provides the Giants with a strong blueprint to stay atop the competitive NFC East.

Key takeaways

• J.J. McCarthy is playing today and making his official debut as QB1 for the NY Giants against the Houston Texans.
• Head coach John Harbaugh promoted McCarthy to starter based on his strong Week 6 outing and command of the offense.
• Jameis Winston steps into the QB2 role, offering experienced leadership and support on the sideline.

Traded to New York earlier this season after a turbulent stint with the Minnesota Vikings, McCarthy enters his first start for the Giants determined to turn past adversity into operational growth. The 23-year-old signal-caller made it clear that he feels far more equipped to handle the demands of NFL QB1 duties now than when he first entered the league.

“Yes, sir. I believe just experience does wonders. Being able to be in that same situation where you might have made a mistake the last time, this time you’re just going to react better and make a more well-rounded response decision in that situation. Just being around great talent and great coaches, absolutely love everyone on the offensive side of the ball and the defensive side of the ball does a tremendous job of just giving us opportunities.”

Who is QB1 for NY Giants now?

Yes. J.J. McCarthy will be QB1 for the New York Giants against the Houston Texans. Rather than viewing the start as a heavy burden to prove his doubters wrong, McCarthy approaches the opportunity with a disciplined, process-oriented mindset.

When pressed on whether he sees Week 7 as a defining chance to resuscitate his career and validate his status as a legitimate NFL starter, McCarthy brushed off narrative noise in favor of daily growth.

“Every time you step on the field, it’s an opportunity. Whether you’re the starting guy, whether you’re not, you have a chance to prove yourself, prove it to your peers, and prove it to everyone around you,” McCarthy explained. “And at the end of the day, I approach it the same way. How can I attack that next rep, how can I win this day and go from there.”

A new beginning for J.J. McCarthy with Giants

McCarthy’s perspective reflects the resilience gained from an up-and-down beginning to his professional career. Drafted in the first round by Minnesota in 2024, he flashed arm strength and mobility but struggled with consistency and injuries in 10 starts for the Vikings.

However, his electric fourth-quarter relief appearance in Week 6 against New Orleans—where he racked up 243 passing yards in just 11 minutes—demonstrated the explosive off-platform capability that lured New York to acquire him via trade.

McCarthy’s ability to learn from previous turnover-prone games enables him to make faster, safer reads against blitz heavy schemes. His emphasis on appreciating his teammates and defensive support reflects a young leader who has quickly integrated into Big Blue’s culture. By taking a “win the day” mental approach, McCarthy eliminates unnecessary pressure as he prepares to face Houston’s elite pass rushers.

What J.J. McCarthy’s mentality means for the Giants in Week 7

Stepping on the field at NRG Stadium against the Houston Texans carries poetic significance for McCarthy, as it is the exact same venue where he led Michigan to the 2024 College Football Playoff National Championship. Facing off against C.J. Stroud, McCarthy’s grounded demeanor provides New York with steady leadership in a high-stakes NFC East race.

If McCarthy can channel his past experiences into efficient decision-making, his dual-threat athleticism could provide the spark Big Blue needs to sustain a division-leading campaign.

Key takeaways

• J.J. McCarthy confirmed he feels far more ready for his starting role with the Giants than his initial NFL starts, citing valuable experience and improved decision-making.
• McCarthy downplayed career “resuscitation” narratives, focusing instead on attacking each rep and proving himself every time he steps on the field.
• The young QB lauded his teammates and coaches for creating a supportive environment as he prepares for his first start against the Houston Texans.

Head coach John Harbaugh met with reporters to clarify the front office’s rationale behind benching veteran Jameis Winston and elevating McCarthy to the starting QB1 role. While acknowledging Winston’s solid performances during his spot starts, Harbaugh emphasized that McCarthy’s unique skill set provides Big Blue with the highest ceiling moving forward.

Addressing the quarterback change, Harbaugh stressed that the move was about maximizing the offense’s versatility rather than discounting Winston’s contributions. “All things considered, what gives us the best chance to be our best? JJ gives us the best chance to play the best offense we can. I thought Jameis has done a tremendous job. Won us games, played well. But as we go forward here, this is going to be our direction, and we think it gives us some good options on offense.”

Who will be NY Giants QB1 moving forward?

J.J. McCarthy will be the Giants’ QB1. John Harbaugh made it clear that while football inherently operates on a fluid timeline, McCarthy is taking over as the long-term solution under center rather than a week-to-week experiment.

“Life is day to day, minute to minute, you know? There’s really no guarantees. I would never say anything is permanent, really, in football or life, but that’s the plan going forward.”

When asked specifically why McCarthy provides the team with a superior opportunity compared to Winston, Harbaugh pivoted away from direct comparison and focused on what the young signal-caller brings to the field.

“Both guys are great quarterbacks. It’s not really a comparison kind of thing. Just, you know, J.J.’s got a skill set that we can take advantage of, and we’re excited to see what we can do with it.”

That skill set was on full display in Week 6 against New Orleans. After entering in relief of Winston during the fourth quarter, McCarthy injected immediate velocity into the passing attack, throwing for 243 yards and a touchdown in just 11 minutes of action.

His athleticism enables the Giants to re-establish off-platform throws, bootlegs, and second-reaction plays that had been shelved while Winston was operating in a more static pocket setup.

What’s next for J.J. McCarthy?

Stepping into his first start against a relentless Houston Texans defense presents a stern test for J.J. McCarthy. However, Harbaugh’s endorsement confirms that the Giants’ playbook will expand significantly to leverage the QB’s mobility.

McCarthy’s ability to stretch defense on the move allows Matt Nagy’s scheme to utilize sprint-outs and read-option looks. Winston’s professional response to the benching has ensured a smooth transition without lingering controversy in the QB room.

At 3-2-1, the Giants remain locked in a wide-open division race, and Harbaugh believes McCarthy’s ceiling gives Big Blue its best shot at sustaining a postseason run.

Key takeaways

• John Harbaugh confirmed J.J. McCarthy was named QB1 because his skill set gives New York “the best chance to play the best offense we can”.
• Harbaugh stated that while nothing is permanent in football, starting McCarthy is “the plan going forward” rather than a temporary week-to-week fix.
• The head coach lauded Jameis Winston for doing a “tremendous job” and winning games, but highlighted McCarthy’s dynamic upside as the catalyst for the change.

Speaking to reporters following head coach John Harbaugh’s decision, Winston offered high praise for McCarthy’s explosive fourth-quarter performance against the Saints and opened up about stepping into a supporting role.

“Curiosity. Someone that came in, took the position by the horns, and executed very well. He’s embraced a fresh start. I know what it is to feel like you have a chance to start over again.”

Who is Giants starting QB?

J.J. McCarthy is the new Giants starting quarterback. Rather than dwelling on losing the starter’s mantle after filling in during Jaxson Dart’s injury recovery, Winston remains steadfast in his daily approach.

“Every day is going to continue to be focused on getting 1% better in terms of preparation, who I am to my teammates, and being ready when the opportunity presents itself.”

Jameis Winston’s words resonate deeply because he understands the unique pressure facing young quarterbacks in the NFL. McCarthy, who was acquired via trade from the Minnesota Vikings, stepped into a high-stakes environment in Week 6 and rallied Big Blue back into contention against New Orleans by throwing for 243 yards in just one quarter.

Winston recognizes how pivotal a clean slate can be for a young talent finding his footing:

• Empathy in the QB Room: Having restarted his own career across multiple franchises, Winston knows the boost of confidence a player receives when given a true opportunity to start over.
• No Room for Distractions: By publicly endorsing McCarthy, Winston prevents any potential quarterback controversy from lingering over the locker room.
• Unwavering Mentorship: Winston’s willingness to embrace McCarthy’s success creates a healthier preparation environment for the 23-year-old starter.

Why Jameis Winston’s leadership is crucial for New York’s playoff push

At 3-2-1, the Giants currently hold first place in a wide-open NFC East. While McCarthy brings dynamic mobility and off-platform playmaking to Matt Nagy’s offense, the NFL season is long, and backup quarterback play often dictates playoff survival.

Winston’s focus on “getting 1% better every day” ensures that Big Blue maintains high-level depth under center. Facing a formidable Houston Texans pass rush led by Will Anderson Jr. in Week 7, McCarthy will need all the support he can get on the sidelines.

Having a seasoned 32-year-old veteran like Winston in his corner gives the young signal-caller both an extra set of eyes and a steady mentor as he prepares for his first official start in Big Blue.

Key takeaways

• Jameis Winston praised J.J. McCarthy after being benched, noting that McCarthy “took the position by the horns” and “embraced a fresh start.”
• Winston pledged to focus on getting “1% better” every day, committing to support McCarthy while staying ready if his number is called again.
• Winston’s veteran leadership eliminates potential QB drama as the 3-2-1 Giants prepare for a critical Week 7 matchup against the Houston Texans.

The quarterback switch comes on the heels of a erratic, turnover-heavy outing from veteran Jameis Winston. Trailing 34-10 in the fourth quarter against New Orleans after Winston threw his second costly interception of the game, the coaching staff pulled the plug. McCarthy stepped into the huddle and immediately provided a spark, throwing for 243 passing yards and a touchdown in just 11 minutes of game action to nearly pull off an improbable comeback. That raw velocity and aggressive downfield mentality convinced leadership that McCarthy gives the team the best chance to win moving forward.

System fit played a massive role in this decision. When offensive coordinator Matt Nagy designed New York’s offensive scheme, it was tailored to take advantage of Jaxson Dart’s mobility, bootlegs, and pocket-moving concepts. With Dart sidelined, Winston struggled as a stationary pocket passer, whereas J.J. McCarthy possesses the athleticism and arm strength to execute those rollouts and off-platform throws seamlessly. Facing a relentless Houston pass rush, McCarthy’s mobility under center could completely re-energize the offense.

Why J.J. McCarthy fits Giants’ offense better than Jameis Winston

The Giants’ offensive system was built around high-leverage movement plays and dual-threat versatility. While Jameis Winston possesses a big arm, his lack of mobility compromised things behind a re-tooled offensive line, leading to erratic decisions and costly turnovers under pressure.

J.J. McCarthy offers a completely different dynamic:

• Moving the Pocket: McCarthy thrives on bootleg designs, sprint-outs, and play-action concepts that alter launch angles and freeze defensive ends.
• Second-Reaction Playmaking: His ability to evade interior pressure allows receivers additional time to scramble open downfield.
• Arm Talent & Velocity: As demonstrated against New Orleans, McCarthy can drive the ball into tight windows outside the numbers on the move.

Cam Skattebo and the running game hold the key to Week 7

While McCarthy’s promotion generates plenty of buzz, his success against Houston will heavily depend on restoring balance to the offense. New York’s ground game has struggled for consistency in recent weeks, placing far too much strain on the passing attack.

Cam Skattebo must bounce back from his recent ball-security issues and establish a tough, physical presence between the tackles. If Skattebo and the backfield can command attention on early downs, it will set up manageable third-down situations and open up play-action passing lanes for McCarthy to exploit. Sunday against the Texans marks the start of a new chapter for Big Blue, and all eyes will be on how McCarthy responds to his first official NFL start.

Key takeaways

• McCarthy Named QB1: The Giants have officially named J.J. McCarthy their starting quarterback for Week 7 against the Houston Texans.
• Saints Sparks: McCarthy replaced Jameis Winston in Week 6 after Winston threw two interceptions, leading a furious comeback attempt with 243 fourth-quarter yards.
• System Fit: McCarthy’s mobility better aligns with the offensive design intended for Jaxson Dart, while establishing Cam Skattebo in the run game will be vital against Houston.

Making changes at football’s most important position is never easy. Regardless of the situation, there may never be a perfect moment to make such a shake-up without risking tension in the locker room. Still, the Giants believe they’ve seen enough from Winston, and McCarthy, despite an extremely limited sample size, could be the answer moving forward.

As the former Minnesota Vikings QB addressed the media as New York’s starting quarterback for the first time, he discussed his reaction to John Harbaugh’s announcement. His confession might have revealed a lot, including his own view of Winston’s performances so far.

“J.J. McCarthy says he’s honored but ‘not surprised’ to be the starting quarterback of the Giants. Feels he’s more ready to be a starter than his time in Minnesota,” as reported by Jordan Raanan of ESPN.

Why McCarthy may have taken shot at Winston

By saying he isn’t surprised that Harbaugh and the Giants called his number, McCarthy might have unintentionally taken a shot at Winston’s performance. Had Winston been putting together a better on-field product, New York’s decision to shake things up at quarterback might have come as a bigger shock to McCarthy.

Other than that, however, McCarthy had nothing but praise for Winston, and vice versa. The quarterback room in East Rutherford remains close, even though it’s been through the wringer—and back—to start the 2026 NFL season.

NY Giants turn to McCarthy for QB help

At the end of the day, the Giants spent a draft pick on McCarthy—even if it was only a fifth-rounder—they might as well get their money’s worth. Why waste any more time hoping Winston will find his footing when the G-Men could see what McCarthy has to offer?

If the young quarterback’s performance is anything like his almost miraculous fourth-quarter showing against the New Orleans Saints, New York has reasons to be excited. Plus, McCarthy is only in the Meadowlands for a limited time and is on a test-drive-type contract, as he will become a free agent in 2028.

Giants don’t need another franchise QB

When all is said and done this season, this is still Jaxson Dart’s team. The Giants don’t need McCarthy to play at a franchise-quarterback level; they just need him to be good enough to win some games and, hopefully, spare fans and coaches the heart-stopping, stomach-turning roller coaster that Winston can often take the team on.

J.J. ‘game manager’ McCarthy could help New York

For much of his college football career at Michigan, McCarthy was critically labeled a “game manager.” There’s nothing wrong with being one, and that label may actually be good enough for what New York wants from J.J. McCarthy in the 2026 NFL season.

The Giants don’t need McCarthy to play hero ball, though it’d be great if he could at times. As long as he can make the most of the weapons set up all around him, the team should do well.

Key takeaways

• J.J. McCarthy was named the starting quarterback for the New York Giants heading into Week 7.
• J.J. McCarthy feels more ready to start than he did in Minnesota.
• J.J. McCarthy praised Jameis Winston, noting the New York Giants’ quarterback room remains close.

According to a report from ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the Giants plan to start McCarthy against the Houston Texans, which isn’t exactly how former Giants’ Russell Wilson drew things up. Things between Wilson and New York didn’t end in the best of notes, and the Giants’ latest McCarthy QB1 decision might add another layer to the conflicted relationship.

While the Giants recognize one of C.J. Stroud and the Texans’ strengths heading into Week 7, they aren’t blind or naive. The G-Men know they have strengths of their own but must clear up some doubts before they can put them to full use.

On that note, figuring out the best course of action at quarterback is paramount. Still, giving up on Winston after four games may not be ideal. At least, that’s what former Giants QB-turned-NFL analyst Wilson believes.

Russell Wilson’s comments

“I think that before you jump the bridge to J.J. McCarthy you may have to give Jameis Winston one more shot and one more look at it to make sure,” Wilson said on CBS Sports’ “Set, Hut! Show”. “The reality is Jameis has played more football, but also, this 23-year-old just threw for 243 yards in the fourth quarter. What if he played four quarters?”

Having played 14 NFL seasons, Wilson knows a thing or two about coaching and quarterback decisions. Moreover, he spent last season in New York, albeit under a different coaching staff, and knows what might be best for the Giants.

NY Giants didn’t listen to Wilson

Either way, it’s clear that Wilson’s opinions played no role—or were simply outweighed by McCarthy’s merits—in Harbaugh‘s decision. Wilson voiced his thoughts before reports confirmed that McCarthy would start against the Texans in Houston on Sunday. They may have been in vain, or they might give him a chance to tell New York, “I told you so.”

Key takeaways

• J.J. McCarthy will start for the New York Giants against the Houston Texans.
• ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler first reported the Giants’ plan to switch starting quarterbacks.
• Russell Wilson suggested giving Jameis Winston one more start before inserting J.J. McCarthy.

Asked whether McCarthy had done enough to earn the starting job, Harbaugh declined to make an immediate decision. “I can’t answer that now. The game just ended 10 minutes ago.” His response leaves the quarterback situation open, with Winston’s struggles and McCarthy’s late performance likely to fuel the debate.

The Giants fell behind 34-10 before McCarthy sparked a fourth-quarter rally, leading three scoring drives and helping cut the deficit to seven points. New York ultimately ran out of time, turning the ball over on downs inside the Saints’ 15-yard line with five seconds remaining. Despite the loss, McCarthy’s performance gave Harbaugh something to consider as he evaluates the offense’s direction.

Is J.J. McCarthy the Giants starting QB?

The race is open for J.J. McCarthy. Jameis Winston finished the game completing 14 of 26 passes for 152 yards and one touchdown, but his two interceptions proved costly. His second pick, intercepted by Julian Blackmon, set up another Saints touchdown and prompted the Giants to turn to McCarthy early in the fourth quarter. By that point, New Orleans had built a 24-point lead, leaving Winston’s replacement with a difficult situation to overcome.

McCarthy delivered a more productive passing performance, finishing with 243 passing yards and two touchdown passes while also throwing an interception. He helped New York score 17 unanswered points in the fourth quarter, connecting with Isaiah Likely for a 24-yard touchdown and directing another scoring drive that brought the Giants within one possession. The comeback fell short, but his ability to move the offense gave the former Vikings QB a chance to make his case.

Harbaugh also praised McCarthy for stepping into the game under difficult circumstances. “I thought he came in there and did a heck of a job given the circumstances.”

The coach’s comments were encouraging, although they did not guarantee a change at quarterback. With the Giants now 3-2-1 after the defeat, Harbaugh must decide whether to stick with Winston’s experience or give McCarthy a larger role after his late-game spark. The next decision could shape New York’s offense moving forward.

Key takeaways

• John Harbaugh declined to confirm whether J.J. McCarthy will replace Jameis Winston as the Giants’ starting QB.
• Winston threw two interceptions before being benched against the Saints.
• McCarthy threw for 243 yards and two touchdowns, sparking a late comeback that fell short.

McCarthy made his Giants debut against the Washington Commanders, appearing in a limited number of snaps as the team explored ways to use his skill set. With Jameis Winston remaining the starting quarterback, McCarthy’s role is not expected to involve replacing the veteran under center, but the Giants are looking for ways to make their offense less predictable.

Harbaugh’s latest comments suggest the coaching staff is willing to expand McCarthy’s involvement if the situation calls for it. The Giants are preparing to face the Saints while continuing to evaluate how their available quarterbacks can contribute, and the coach made clear that the initial package was not necessarily the limit of what McCarthy could do.

Will J.J. McCarthy play for Giants vs Saints?

J.J. McCarthy might play in certain situation for the Giants against the Saints. When asked about the benefits of the package designed for McCarthy, John Harbaugh described it as a change of pace for the offense.

He also indicated that the plays shown against Washington may represent only part of the team’s plans, suggesting there could be more options available for the quarterback against New Orleans.

“The benefits of it? It’s a change of pace. What you saw is probably not all we have for him right now. Whether or not he’s out there or not will be determined based on whatever happens. But we’ll see if it’s something that can help us.”

Harbaugh also explained why the Giants want to explore different ways to use the players on their roster, emphasizing that the coaching staff will continue looking for opportunities to help the team win.

“One thing about it, to me, it’s like, what’s the benefit of not doing everything you can to use all the guys you have? We’re always going to be searching for opportunities to use our players, give them an opportunity to help us win games. I think we’d be negligent if we didn’t try to do that.”

His comments do not guarantee more snaps for McCarthy against the Saints, but they leave open the possibility of an expanded role depending on the game situation.

Key takeaways

• John Harbaugh hinted J.J. McCarthy could play more against the Saints.
• The Giants have more plays prepared for McCarthy.
• Jameis Winston will be the starting quarterback vs New Orleans.

McCarthy joined the Giants after being acquired from the Minnesota Vikings in a trade last week. The former first-round pick was active for New York’s Week 4 game against the Arizona Cardinals, but he did not take a snap. The Giants had prepared a package of plays for him, however, suggesting that the coaching staff was already considering ways to use his skills without immediately handing him the starting job.

Ahead of Sunday’s divisional matchup, Giants reporter Dan Duggan explained why McCarthy’s potential involvement remains intriguing. His comments suggest the quarterback could be used in high-leverage situations, particularly near the goal line, if the offense needs a spark. That possibility gives McCarthy a chance to make his Giants debut even if Winston continues to lead the offense for most of the game.

Who will be Giants starting QB vs Commanders?

Jameis Winston is expected to start against Washington, with McCarthy potentially appearing in a specialized package. Duggan shared his thoughts on the possibility of using the former Vikings quarterback in certain situations:

“I remain intrigued by the idea of a JJ McCarthy package. He’s more mobile than Winston, but I don’t view him as some huge run threat. Maybe they insert him in the red zone if the offense is struggling.”

The idea would allow New York to take advantage of McCarthy’s mobility and give the Commanders’ defense a different look, particularly in the red zone. However, Duggan’s comments reflect a potential strategy rather than confirmation that McCarthy will play. The Giants have not announced a specific plan for his involvement, and his role could depend on how the game unfolds.

For now, Winston remains the Giants’ primary quarterback after leading the team to consecutive victories over the Tennessee Titans and Arizona Cardinals. McCarthy is still learning the offense after arriving in New York, so a limited package of plays could be a way to introduce him gradually. If the Giants struggle to finish drives or need a different option near the goal line, McCarthy could get an opportunity to contribute against Washington.

Key takeaways

• Jameis Winston remains the starting quarterback for the Giants against Washington.
• J.J. McCarthy joined the Giants after a trade from Minnesota last week.
• Dan Duggan suggested McCarthy could be used in red zone situations.