The Minnesota Vikings are keen to evaluate their young quarterback, J.J. McCarthy, after a standout 2024 season led by veteran Sam Darnold’s impressive resurgence. However, Darnold’s departure to the Seattle Seahawks in the offseason opened the door for McCarthy to step up as the starter. McCarthy managed only two starts before a high ankle sprain sidelined him during Minnesota’s commanding victory over the Cincinnati Bengals.
The Vikings had hoped McCarthy would return for their Week Four clash against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Dublin, Ireland, but head coach Kevin O’Connell has ruled him out, per NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. “Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy and LB Andrew Van Ginkel are officially out for Sunday vs. Pittsburgh, Kevin O’Connell said. C Ryan Kelly and DL Javon Hargrave are cleared to play,” Pelissero reported.
The news sparked frustration among fans on social media. One tweeted, “Here we go again—a young QB gets hurt, and we’re stuck with a veteran dragging us to another heartbreaking playoff loss.” Another fan vented, “Trade McCarthy already. Eight quarters, and he’s only looked decent in one.”
It remains unclear when McCarthy will return to the field, leaving Vikings fans anxious for answers.