J.J. McCarthy is looking forward to getting another chance at quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings. After missing five games because of a severely sprained ankle, McCarthy is expected to return Sunday against the Detroit Lions.
âThereâs a reset button, essentially, just being six weeks down,â McCarthy said Wednesday, via the Associated Press. âI feel like thereâs a lot learned just about playing the game of football at the next level. This is my second year. Iâm still learning so much, and all that time is not time thatâs wasted.â
McCarthy, the 10th overall pick in 2024 out of Michigan, has not played since a Week 2 loss to the Atlanta Falcons.
McCarthy in a ‘Really Good Place’ Following Injury
Staying healthy has been a constant struggle for McCarthy, who missed his entire rookie season following knee surgery.
McCarthy helped lead a thrilling comeback in Week 1 against the Chicago Bears, throwing for 143 yards and two touchdowns and rushing for a score in a 27-24 win. The following week against the Falcons was more of a struggle: 158 yards and two interceptions in a 22-6 loss.
Asked Wednesday about McCarthy, Vikings head coach Kevin OâConnell said the quarterbackâs in a âreally good place from a health standpoint.â
âHe’s made multiple comments to me throughout the rehab about being able to watch Carson (Wentz) play the position, play it as a new player in our offense and see the ways he was able to distribute the football and the effect that had on the offense,â OâConnell said. â(Heâs) excited to get back on the field.”
Wentz Out for Season With Shoulder Injury
After going 2-3 as a starter in McCarthyâs absence, Carson Wentz landed on injured reserve with a left shoulder injury. Wentz is expected to undergo surgery and miss the rest of the season.
The well-traveled veteran was seen grimacing in pain through last weekâs loss to the Los Angeles Chargers while wearing a protective harness over his shoulder. He completed 15 of 27 passes for 144 yards with one touchdown and one interception.
According to NFL Networkâs Ian Rapoport, Wentz initially hurt his shoulder in a Week 5 win over the Cleveland Browns in London.
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