McCarthy’s recovery timeline remains unchanged.
Aug 10, 2024; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) runs the ball during the second quarter against the Las Vegas Raiders at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports
Minnesota Vikings rookie quarterback, J.J. McCarthy, recently had a second knee surgery as he keeps pushing through recovery from a torn meniscus. McCarthy, drafted 10th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft from Michigan, initially suffered the injury in the preseason.
After increasing his physical therapy, his right knee started swelling, which led to another procedure to address it, according to head coach Kevin O’Connell. ESPN reports that McCarthy also received a biologic injection to support his recovery.
O’Connell confirmed that this second surgery won’t affect McCarthy’s overall recovery schedule.
“Just with the time that we do have — he’s been doing everything we’ve asked of him (improving, getting stronger, all those things) — but we just wanted to make sure there was no cause for concern,” O’Connell said. “All reports were very positive, and he’s on the original timeline and in good shape.
“I’ve just enjoyed as his rehab has progressed, he can be in meetings and spend a little more time with us. It’s been real growth for him. He continues to ask great questions every day, and we’ll just continue on. … We feel really good about where he’s at.”
For now, Sam Darnold remains the starting quarterback for the Vikings. His performance throughout the season will likely determine if the team considers bringing him back next year to compete with McCarthy for the QB role.
Darnold has had a career-best season so far, leading the Vikings to a strong 7-2 start. However, recent games have been rough, with Darnold throwing five interceptions over the last two matchups, including a zero-touchdown, three-interception game in a 12-7 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars.
J.J. McCarthy’s injury history
McCarthy, picked by the Vikings with the 10th overall selection in April’s NFL Draft, initially underwent surgery in August to repair the meniscus in his right knee, sidelining him for his entire rookie season. He sustained the injury during his NFL preseason debut.
J.J. McCarthy first hurt his knee in his preseason opener, staying on the field despite experiencing soreness. Two days later, the Vikings conducted further tests, which revealed a torn meniscus. At that point, they didn’t yet have a clear timeline for his return until surgery provided more details.
McCarthy wasn’t expected to start in the regular season, with the Vikings planning to have Sam Darnold open as QB1, allowing McCarthy time to observe and develop. His injury ultimately cemented that decision.
The second surgery was needed to reduce knee swelling after J.J. McCarthy resumed physical activity following his initial surgery. ESPN’s Kevin Seifert reported that McCarthy also received a biologic injection during the latest procedure to aid his recovery.
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Image: © Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images
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