On Tuesday morning, Kevin O’Connell shared that Vikings rookie J.J. McCarthy will undergo knee surgery. McCarthy missed practice on Monday with knee soreness and O’Connell stated that this was only precautionary. The organization made it clear that the injury was not serious, but they wanted to be extra careful. Once tests were run, a meniscus tear was found.
The Debut
J.J. McCarthy made his NFL debut on Saturday against the Las Vegas Raiders. After Sam Darnold started the game and played one series, McCarthy entered. After a quick interception, he settled in. McCarthy even stated that he looked at this interception as an opportunity.
McCarthy proved that by recovering with a very solid showing overall. His day included two touchdown throws. He also went 11 for 17 for 188 passing yards and added 18 yards on two rushes before being replaced.
QB Battle
This debut impressed many, with fans and media calling for McCarthy to get more snaps with the first team. Darnold came into camp as the QB1 with O’Connell making it clear that McCarthy will not be rushed into starting. Reports out of camp have been very positive about McCarthy, so much so that fans were hoping for him to take the reigns at quarterback sooner rather than later.
With McCarthy playing well and practicing well, the calls for him to get more time are valid. The surgery changes things.
The 2024 Season
With J.J. McCarthy having to get knee surgery, he will be out for an undetermined amount of time. The time will depend on what the surgery needs to repair. A meniscus surgery can end up going one of two ways, either a repair or a trim. He will miss time, but what type of surgery will determine how much time he misses. If it is only a trim of a small tear, McCarthy can come back relatively soon. If it is a larger tear and needs a full repair, he will be out for months. Either way, this is a major setback for the rookie.
For the time being, the Minnesota Vikings will be rolling with Sam Darnold. This was the plan all along, but now their hand has been forced. Vikings fans will have to wait to see the anticipated rookie take over as quarterback.
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