Vikings Rookie QB J.J. McCarthy’s Season Cut Short
The Minnesota Vikings have announced that rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy will miss the remainder of the 2024 season following successful surgery on a meniscus tear in his right knee. Head coach Kevin O’Connell shared the news during a press conference on Wednesday.
McCarthy, who experienced knee soreness earlier in the week, underwent tests after reporting discomfort on Monday. “He did undergo surgery this morning on that meniscus,” O’Connell stated. “The procedure revealed that a repair was necessary, which unfortunately means J.J. will be sidelined for the entire 2024 season.”
Selected by the Vikings with the 10th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, McCarthy had shown promise during the preseason. In his absence, veteran quarterback Sam Darnold, entering his seventh season in the league, is expected to step in as the starter when Minnesota opens its regular season on September 8 against the New York Giants.
O’Connell expressed his disappointment over McCarthy’s injury, emphasizing the progress the young quarterback had made. “This is just a small bump in the road,” he remarked. “Many quarterbacks in our league have faced similar setbacks and have come back stronger than ever. That’s not only my expectation, but I’m confident that’s what will happen for J.J.”
While O’Connell has not officially announced a starting quarterback for the upcoming season, he acknowledged McCarthy’s potential, remarking, “Our fanbase should be excited about the fact that we have our young franchise quarterback in the building.”
O’Connell’s Reaction to the Injury
O’Connell’s disappointment was palpable as he reflected on McCarthy’s promising performance during the preseason. After an impressive 11-for-17 showing against the Raiders, O’Connell had envisioned a bright future for McCarthy. The Vikings have faced numerous challenges this season, including the tragic loss of player Khyree Jackson and Mekhi Blackmon’s ACL injury, making this latest setback particularly disheartening.
O’Connell candidly shared his feelings, stating he had greatly enjoyed witnessing McCarthy’s development. Having had a hand in coaching the young quarterback, O’Connell reminisced about his early career as a quarterbacks coach in the NFL. He maintained confidence in the team’s ability to endure these tribulations, saying, “This Vikings culture and roster are built to withstand adversity.” Nevertheless, he lamented the unfortunate circumstances surrounding McCarthy’s injury.
Implications for the 2024 Season
The Vikings were already anticipating a transitional year, with roughly $60 million in dead cap money affecting their roster decisions. As they shift from relying on aging veterans to developing younger talent, Darnold’s role as a bridge quarterback for McCarthy takes on added significance. While he was always expected to start the season opener, the weight of expectations now rests heavily on his shoulders.
Additionally, comments from co-owner Mark Wilf regarding contract extensions for general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and O’Connell have raised questions. He indicated that no discussions would take place until after the season, leaving uncertainty about the team’s direction in light of McCarthy’s absence. Compounding this issue, the Vikings currently hold only three draft picks for the next season: a first-rounder and two fifth-rounders. A disappointing season could hinder their ability to replenish the roster with much-needed depth.
Required Reading
- Why J.J. McCarthy’s knee injury might not be the worst thing for him or the Vikings
- Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy to have surgery on torn meniscus: What does this mean for Minnesota?
- J.J. McCarthy’s debut and 9 more Vikings thoughts from preseason win over Raiders
(Photo: Stephen Maturen / Getty Images)
