Minnesota Vikings' first-round pick J.J. McCarthy will miss the entirety of his rookie season after undergoing surgery to repair a torn right meniscus. The injury was discovered during a routine examination after McCarthy sat out of Monday's practice with knee soreness.
Minnesota Vikings' first-round pick J.J. McCarthy will miss the entirety of his rookie season after undergoing surgery to repair a torn right meniscus. The injury was discovered during a routine examination after McCarthy sat out of Monday's practice with knee soreness.
Head coach Kevin O'Connell announced the news on Wednesday, stating that the surgery was successful. However, doctors determined that a "repair was necessary which will end J.J.’s 2024 season."
Vikings Rookie QB J.J. McCarthy to Miss Entire Season with Torn Meniscus
McCarthy, the 10th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, was initially expected to battle veteran Sam Darnold for the starting quarterback position. However, with McCarthy sidelined for the entire season, Darnold is now the clear favorite to start Week 1 against the New York Giants.
McCarthy's injury came as a surprise, as he had impressed in his first preseason game against the Las Vegas Raiders. He threw for 188 yards with two touchdowns and one interception while completing 11-of-17 passes.
Vikings Rookie QB J.J. McCarthy to Miss Entire Season with Torn Meniscus
Despite the setback, McCarthy remains optimistic about his future with the Vikings. "Love you Viking nation. I’ll be back in no time. Amor fati," he posted on social media.
McCarthy's absence will be a significant blow to the Vikings' offense. The team was counting on him to provide depth and competition at the quarterback position.
Vikings Rookie QB J.J. McCarthy to Miss Entire Season with Torn Meniscus
Darnold, who has shown signs of improvement during training camp, will now have the opportunity to prove that he can be a reliable starting quarterback in the NFL.
McCarthy's injury also highlights the importance of depth at the quarterback position. With McCarthy out for the season, the Vikings will need to rely on Kellen Mond, who was selected in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft, to serve as Darnold's backup.
Despite the adversity, the Vikings remain confident in their team and their ability to compete in the 2024 season. McCarthy's injury will be a challenge, but the team will look to rally around Darnold and make a deep playoff run.
* McCarthy was considered one of the most promising quarterbacks in the 2024 NFL Draft class. He led Michigan to a national championship in 2023 and threw for 44 touchdowns and nine interceptions in his collegiate career.
* The Vikings were excited to add McCarthy to their roster and believed he had the potential to be a franchise quarterback. However, his injury will delay his development and impact the team's plans for the future.
* Darnold, who was acquired from the Carolina Panthers in 2022, has shown signs of improvement during training camp. He is more comfortable in the Vikings' offense and has established a good rapport with his receivers.
* The Vikings will need to adjust their game plan without McCarthy, who was expected to play a significant role in their offense. The team will likely rely more on running back Dalvin Cook and wide receiver Justin Jefferson to carry the load.
* The Vikings have a talented roster and are still considered a playoff contender in 2024. However, McCarthy's injury will be a major obstacle that the team will need to overcome.
