The Minnesota Vikings entered their training camp with a big decision to make: choosing between rookie J.J. McCarthy and veteran Sam Darnold for the starting quarterback spot. However, it looks like this decision is going to be influenced by an unexpected injury.
J.J. McCarthy knee injury update
J.J. McCarthy, the rookie quarterback the Vikings picked 10th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, has been diagnosed with a torn meniscus in his right knee. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, McCarthy will need surgery to fix the tear.
Before the injury, McCarthy was showing promise in his NFL debut, having a solid performance in the preseason by completing 11 of 17 passes for 188 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. He was competing directly with Sam Darnold, the former No. 3 pick from 2018, for the starting role.
McCarthy’s knee trouble first came to light when he was listed with right knee soreness on the practice report. The severity of the injury has now been confirmed, leading to the expected surgery. Coach Kevin O’Connell had initially said McCarthy was sitting out practice as a precaution, but it turns out the injury is more serious.
The usual recovery time for meniscus surgery is about four to six weeks. However, if McCarthy needs a more extensive repair, recovery could take up to 8 to 12 weeks. For comparison, Jalen Ramsey had a similar surgery last July and was expected to be out until December but managed to return by late October. The Vikings will likely be cautious with McCarthy to ensure he’s fully healed before rushing him back.
With McCarthy sidelined, Sam Darnold is expected to step up as the starting quarterback. The Vikings had signed Darnold to a one-year, $10 million deal this offseason, planning for him to fill the gap between Kirk Cousins and their new rookie. Now, he’ll take on that role with McCarthy injured.
Nick Mullens will probably serve as Darnold’s backup, with Jaren Hall as the third-string quarterback. Both Mullens and Hall started multiple games for the Vikings last season, but neither had much success.
Here’s a look at the current Vikings quarterback depth chart:
| Role | Player |
| Starter | Sam Darnold |
| QB2 | J.J. McCarthy (injured) |
| QB3 | Nick Mullens |
| QB4 | Jaren Hall |
