Minnesota Vikings rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy has been ruled out for the season after having successful surgery on the meniscus in his right knee, coach Kevin O’Connell announced Wednesday. McCarthy underwent testing related to knee soreness after he reported the injury Monday afternoon.
“He did undergo surgery this morning on that meniscus,” O’Connell told reporters. “It did reveal that a repair was necessary, which will end J.J.’s 2024 season.”
The Vikings selected McCarthy out of Michigan with the No. 10 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Sam Darnold, who is entering his seventh season in the league, will likely assume starting quarterback responsibilities in McCarthy’s absence when Minnesota’s regular season begins Sept. 8, on the road against the New York Giants.
“This is going to be a small bump in the road,” O’Connell said. “Other quarterbacks in our league have gone through similar things, and came back stronger and better than ever. That is not only my expectation, but I know that’s going to happen for J.J.”
O’Connell had yet to name a starting quarterback for the regular season, but McCarthy showed flashes of potential to this point. The Vikings’ organization and fan base will have to wait a season to see the college football national champion QB take his talents to the NFL.
“Our fanbase and everyone should just be excited about the fact we’ve got our young franchise quarterback, I believe, in the building,” O’Connell said.
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