Minnesota Vikings Rookie quarterback JJ McCarthy continues his recovery from two knee surgeries that sidelined him for the entire 2024 season. According to Darren Wolfson of SKOR North on Thursday, McCarthy is “doing well” in the rehab process of.
The 2024 first-round draft pick underwent his initial surgery in August after experiencing discomfort in his right knee during the preseason. McCarthy had promised on his debut against him Las Vegas Raiderscompleting 11 of 17 passes for 188 yards and two touchdowns.
A second surgery followed in November due to swelling issues. However, Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell maintained that the quarterback’s recovery timeline remained unchanged. The typical recovery period for McCarthy’s meniscus repair is six to eight months.
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Wolfson’s latest report suggests a measured approach to McCarthy’s return.
“Is it a full go first day of OTA’s? Or is it mandatory minicamp in June, that’s probably a little aggressive based on the injury, the initial injury, the initial surgery,” Wolfson noted.
Meantime, Sam DarnoldHis spectacular season has complicated the Vikings quarterback situation. The veteran signal-caller earned his first Pro Bowl selection after throwing for 4,153 yards and 35 touchdowns while leading Minnesota to a 14-2 record.
JJ McCarthy trade rumors intensify as Giants show interest
The uncertainty surrounding JJ McCarthy’s future in Minnesota has sparked trade talks. ESPN’s Mel Kiper thinks so New York Giants can offer the no. 3 overall pick in the upcoming draft for McCarthy’s services.
“JJ McCarthy is a year younger than Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders. He’s had a year, he’s going to come off an injury. But he’s a kid, if you look at his grades last year compared to this year’s quarterback grades, he’s going to be the No. 1 guy,” Kiper said on “Sports Radio” Wednesday.
The Giants’ potential interest stems from their previous evaluation of McCarthy. The team hosted him for a private meeting last Easter Sunday before finally selecting the receiver Malik Nabers with the sixth overall pick in the 2024 draft.
McCarthy’s college credentials support the commercial reputation. He led Michigan to a national championship in 2023, posting 2,991 yards on a 22-4 record. His 72.3 percent completion percentage and 167.4 passer rating led the Big Ten.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports that multiple NFL teams may pursue McCarthy given the limited talent at quarterback in the upcoming draft. The Seattle Seahawks have emerged as another potential suitor, with Colin Cowherd suggesting they could package multiple draft picks for the young quarterback.
The Vikings’ decision likely depends on how Darnold performs in the playoffs. A deep postseason run could cement Darnold’s place as the franchise quarterback, potentially making McCarthy available via trade. For now, JJ McCarthy is focusing on his rehabilitation, with the goal of returning to full strength for the 2025 season.
Editor: Kim Daniel Rubinos
