Minnesota Vikings rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy has provided an encouraging update on his recovery from knee surgery, fueling speculation about the futures of Sam Darnold and Daniel Jones in Minnesota.
McCarthy, the No. 10 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, has been sidelined for his entire rookie year after suffering a torn meniscus in his right knee during the preseason opener.
The injury required surgery, making McCarthy the first quarterback in NFL history to be drafted in the first round and miss his entire rookie campaign due to injury.
In his absence, veteran quarterback Sam Darnold has taken the reins and is delivering a near-MVP caliber season.
Currently, the Vikings stand at 10-2 and project to be an extremely tough-out in the playoffs.
Once labeled a bust, Darnold has revitalized his career under head coach Kevin O’Connell, throwing for 2,952 yards, 23 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions with a stellar passer rating of 102.5.
Despite Darnold’s strong performance, McCarthy remains central to the Vikings’ long-term plans.
Minnesota invested heavily in the Michigan standout, and his return is expected in time for training camp next season.
McCarthy shared insights into his recovery process during a recent appearance on The L.A.B. Podcast.
“The knee is doing fantastic,” McCarthy said. “It’s on the road they told me it was going to be on, which is up and down.
“PRP (platelet-rich plasma injection), we got that done, so going in there and having to get cut open wasn’t great, but it’s alright because it’s all part of the process and I’m in a good spot right now.”
The looming return of McCarthy raises significant questions about Darnold’s future in Minnesota.
Playing on a one-year, $10 million contract, Darnold has proven he can lead a team, but he may not be eager to revert to a backup role behind McCarthy.
Given his resurgence, Darnold will likely attract significant interest in free agency, but the familiarity and success he’s found under O’Connell could make competing for the starting job in Minnesota an appealing option.
Darnold’s decision will also impact Daniel Jones, who recently joined the Vikings after being released by the New York Giants.
Danny Dimes, once considered a franchise quarterback, was let go less than two years after signing a four-year, $160 million deal with Big Blue.
The Giants remain responsible for his salary, making him a low-risk addition for Minnesota. Jones is seeking a career reset after a rocky tenure in New York, and O’Connell’s quarterback-friendly system offers an enticing opportunity.
However, Jones’ future likely hinges on whether Darnold stays or departs.
Minnesota has hinted that their long-term plan is still for McCarthy to be their franchise quarterback.
Jones would make for a phenomenal backup for McCarthy, not just for his ability to step in and perform if need be, but also for the leadership and mentorship he would undoubtedly provide.
What are your thoughts on the big-picture quarterback plans in Minnesota?
It’s a unique situation because the fact of the matter is the Vikings have to be taken very seriously this season.
In many ways, they’re not getting the attention and respect they deserve. Who’s to say they can’t pull off a few surprises and go on a Super Bowl run?
Bear with me for a second … If Darnold leads the Vikings to a Super Bowl victory, would O’Connell and the front office really kick him to the curb in favor of McCarthy???
