Second-Year Starter J.J. McCarthy to Miss a Few Weeks with Injury

Minnesota Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy's NFL career took another unfortunate turn on Monday when what initially appeared to be a minor right ankle roll was later diagnosed as a high ankle sprain, a more serious injury that will keep him sidelined for an estimated two to four weeks. This setback means that backup quarterback Carson Wentz, whom the Vikings signed on August 24, is now expected to start in Sunday’s crucial game against the Cincinnati Bengals, according to head coach Kevin O'Connell.

McCarthy, the No. 10 overall pick in the 2024 draft, has yet to find consistent footing in the league. He missed his entire rookie season due to a strained meniscus in his right knee, and struggles have continued this year. In the two starts he has managed, McCarthy has thrown just 41 passes and played only 95 snaps, compiling the league's second-lowest quarterback rating (QBR) at 20.1.

To compound the Vikings’ difficulties, the team’s offensive line is also dealing with significant injuries. Coach O’Connell confirmed that both center Ryan Kelly and left tackle Justin Skule have entered concussion protocol. While initial indications of their condition appear promising, there is still no clear answer as to whether either will be able to participate in the upcoming game against Cincinnati.

The combination of McCarthy’s injury and the uncertain status of key offensive linemen presents a daunting challenge for the Vikings as they face a formidable Bengals defense known for its pass rush and opportunistic secondary. With McCarthy out, Wentz must step into a high-pressure situation, tasked not only with managing the offense but also rallying a team grappling with mounting adversity. His experience as a former Pro Bowl quarterback offers some assurance, but the pressure to perform after a brief offseason with the Vikings cannot be understated.

Moreover, the offensive line’s instability will likely test Wentz’s ability to adapt quickly if they aren’t cleared to go come Sunday, as protection schemes become crucial against Cincinnati’s front. The Vikings’ coaching staff will need to devise game plans that mitigate these vulnerabilities, possibly leaning more heavily on quick releases, short passes, and an increased role for the running game to shield Wentz from potentially making costly mistakes. For McCarthy, the road ahead will require patience and resilience as he rehabs, while for the Vikings, the coming weeks serve as a critical test of depth, coaching acumen, and team cohesion. How they respond could define their playoff hopes and set the tone for the organization’s future beyond this challenging chapter.