NFL Trade Rumors: Minnesota Vikings Quarterback J.J. McCarthy Undergoing Knee Surgery

Minnesota Vikings fans will have to wait a while to see their new franchise passer in action. According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy will undergo surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee.

Here’s the key part about J.J. McCarthy’s knee surgery: A decision will be made at the time of his operation about whether his meniscus requires a trimming or a complete repair, which will determine the length of his recovery. They are two different timelines. https://t.co/iolnqlxj31
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 13, 2024

McCarthy played 30 snaps in the Vikings' 24-23 preseason win over the Las Vegas Raiders on Saturday, throwing for a team-high 188 yards and two touchdowns. He expressed soreness to team officials on Monday, at which point the injury was discovered.

At the moment, it's unclear whether McCarthy will require a trim or complete repair. Doctors will determine that during the procedure. A complete repair would likely sideline him for the entirety of the 2024 season. In any case, he'll likely be unavailable in the opening portion of the season.

McCarthy was competing with free agent addition Sam Darnold for first-team reps during training camp and was not expected to open the season as the team's starter, but his injury should still come as a major disappointment. The Vikings' future rests squarely on McCarthy's shoulders, and suffering such a significant injury so early into his career does not bode well for his viability as a long-term starter.

Still, if the Vikings view 2024 as a transition year, McCarthy's absence could have an upside. A year unburdened by expectations with the organization could serve the rookie well. The NFL is full of star quarterbacks who benefitted from a rookie season spent mostly on the bench, from Patrick Mahomes to Jordan Love to Jalen Hurts. Given McCarthy's relative lack of college experience (he only threw 713 career passes at Michigan), it makes sense for the Vikings to bring him along slowly. Plus, if McCarthy is injured, the Vikings won't feel pressure to force him into action if Darnold struggles. A year on injured reserve could be a blessing in disguise.