Minnesota Vikings rookie quarterback JJ McCarthy is making progress in his recovery journey after undergoing two knee surgeries that kept him out of action for the entire 2024 season. SKOR North’s Darren Wolfson reported on Thursday that McCarthy is “doing well” in his rehabilitation process.
The first-round draft pick in 2024 had to undergo surgery in August after experiencing discomfort in his right knee during the preseason. Despite the setback, McCarthy showed promise in his debut against the Las Vegas Raiders, where he completed 11 of 17 passes for 188 yards and two touchdowns. However, a second surgery was required in November due to swelling issues.
Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell has been optimistic about McCarthy’s recovery timeline, stating that the typical period for meniscus repair is six to eight months. Wolfson mentioned that McCarthy’s return will be a gradual process, with the quarterback potentially being ready for full participation in OTA’s or the June mandatory minicamp.
Meanwhile, the outstanding performance of veteran quarterback Sam Darnold has added complexity to the Vikings’ quarterback situation. Darnold earned his first Pro Bowl selection after throwing for 4,153 yards and 35 touchdowns, leading Minnesota to a remarkable 14-2 record.
Rumors of a potential trade involving JJ McCarthy have surfaced, with the New York Giants reportedly showing interest in acquiring the young quarterback. ESPN’s Mel Kiper suggested that the Giants might be willing to offer their No. 3 overall pick in the upcoming draft for McCarthy’s services. Kiper highlighted McCarthy’s potential as a top quarterback prospect and emphasized his impressive college credentials, including leading Michigan to a national championship in 2023.
Reports indicate that multiple NFL teams, including the Seattle Seahawks, could pursue McCarthy due to the limited quarterback talent in the upcoming draft. The Vikings’ decision on McCarthy’s future may depend on Darnold’s playoff performance, with a successful postseason run potentially solidifying Darnold as the franchise quarterback.
For now, McCarthy remains focused on his rehabilitation, aiming to return to full strength for the 2025 season. The trade rumors and interest from other teams will continue to swirl as the Vikings assess their quarterback situation moving forward.
As the situation unfolds, it will be interesting to see how McCarthy’s recovery progresses and whether a potential trade materializes. The Vikings will have a crucial decision to make regarding their quarterback position, with McCarthy’s future hanging in the balance. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
