The Minnesota Vikings have placed quarterback J.J. McCarthy on injured reserve due to a torn meniscus, sidelining their first-round pick from the 2024 NFL Draft for the entire season. McCarthy underwent surgery and was expected to compete for the starting role after being selected No. 10 overall. In his preseason debut, he completed 11 of 17 passes for 188 yards, with two touchdowns and one interception, before sustaining the injury. To fill the quarterback position, the Vikings have signed Matt Corral, a UFL champion.
By the Numbers
- J.J. McCarthy was the first QB in the common draft era to miss his entire rookie season due to injury.
- He passed for 188 yards with 2 TDs and 1 INT in his only preseason game.
State of Play
- McCarthy is officially out for the 2024 season, increasing pressure on the Vikings’ QB situation.
- Sam Darnold, a former first-round pick, takes over the team’s quarterback responsibilities.
What’s Next
The Vikings will rely heavily on Sam Darnold as the season unfolds, and Matt Corral’s performance will also be under scrutiny. The team’s strategy may shift significantly based on quarterback play and overall performance in upcoming games.
Bottom Line
The Vikings face a crucial turning point with McCarthy’s injury, which not only reshapes their offensive strategy but also highlights the importance of consistent quarterback performance in their pursuit of a successful season.
