NFL Rumors: Vikings' J.J. McCarthy 'Ahead of Schedule' with Knee Injury Recovery
December 5, 2024
Amid a surprisingly good season for the Minnesota Vikings, fans got some good news surrounding their rookie quarterback.
J.J. McCarthy, who will not play this season after tearing his meniscus and undergoing two knee surgeries, is reportedly "doing great" and is "ahead of schedule" in his recovery, NFL insider Jordan Schultz said on The Herd on Wednesday (3:25 mark).
McCarthy tore his meniscus and underwent surgery in August before the season started. Last month, he underwent a second surgery on his right knee.
"As his rehab has picked up, we noticed a little swelling in there and just with the time that we do have ... we just wanted to make sure there was no cause for concern," Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell said, per ESPN's Kevin Seifert. "All reports were very positive and he's on the original timetable and in good shape."
Minnesota selected McCarthy 10th overall after an outstanding two seasons as Michigan's starter. In 2023, he led the Wolverines to a national championship behind 2,991 passing yards, 22 touchdowns and five interceptions.
The highly-anticipated rookie suffering an injury before the season started was a blow to the Vikings, but things have worked out favorably for them this season.
Minnesota named Sam Darnold, who signed with the team this offseason, the starter and he has thrived. He's thrown for 2,952 yards, 23 touchdowns and 10 interceptions, on pace to have the best statistical season of his career.
His play has led the Vikings to a 10-2 start.
With Darnold performing well, Minnesota will have a tough choice to make this offseason. He signed to a one-year deal, meaning he'll be a free agent, and the Vikings will have to decide whether to extend Darnold and hope for another good season or let him walk and move on to their young quarterback.
Schultz said on The Herd that he believes Darnold will sign elsewhere in the offseason and the Vikings will let McCarthy and the newly signed Daniel Jones battle it out for the starting position.
But the offseason is still a ways away for the Vikings. For now, they'll look to continue their outstanding season and make a push for the Super Bowl.