J.J. McCarthy injury update: Vikings QB takes major step in recovery ahead of TNF vs. Rams
It’s still a long way until J.J. McCarthy sees an NFL field during the regular season, but he’s going to be quite close on Thursday night, as the rookie quarterback traveled with the team to Los Angeles, according to SI’s Albert Breer.
McCarthy is still recovering from surgery to repair a torn knee meniscus. However, his presence around the team on a game day is a welcome update in his recovery.
While he won’t see snaps, McCarthy will wear a headset on the sideline and basically experience the game like a backup quarterback might. And the access to mental reps as his knee heals is surely something the Vikings will want the rookie to make the most of.
McCarthy was placed on injured reserve in mid-August after his surgery.
After having surgery for his torn meniscus, it was revealed that McCarthy would miss the entire 2024 campaign, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero.
“Vikings rookie QB J.J. McCarthy will miss the entire 2024 season after having his torn meniscus repaired today by Dr. Chris Larson at Twin Cities Orthopedics, sources tell me and @RapSheet,” NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero wrote. “Disappointing end to Year 1, but repair gives McCarthy the best chance at a long career.”The video player is currently playing an ad.
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The disappointing news ended McCarthy’s rookie season without it ever kicking into gear. Additionally, it made the former Michigan Wolverines quarterback’s message to the Vikings faithful all the more tragic.
“Love you Viking nation,” McCarthy wrote, when it was first revealed he had a torn meniscus. “I’ll be back in no time. Amor fati.”
McCarthy originally underwent an MRI in early August after he missed a Monday practice with knee soreness. Afterward, head coach Kevin O’Connell later confirmed that the quarterback had torn his meniscus in his right knee.
During his lone action in the preseason, which was a 24-23 win over the Las Vegas Raiders over the weekend, McCarthy went 11-of-17 passing for 188 yards, two touchdowns and one interception.