How Concerned Should We Be About JJ McCarthy’s Knee Injury?

Updated Story: JJ McCarthy Needs Knee Surgery

Original Post: The Minnesota Vikings finished off a preseason victory on Saturday. There were plenty of highlights, but among the best was the play of rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy. That momentum came to a halt quickly as he reported an injury on Monday.

Is J.J. McCarthy’s knee injury serious for Minnesota Vikings?

The severity of J.J. McCarthy’s knee injury is the main question for the Minnesota Vikings, entering Tuesday. Monday evening, they held their annual night practice under the lights, in front of fans. Unfortunately, fans hoping to see McCarthy take the field were left disappointed.

“While Sam Darnold has been the Vikings’ No. 1 quarterback throughout training camp, McCarthy was scheduled to begin receiving increased practice snaps with the first-team offense this week, O’Connell said.“

Kevin Seifert on J.J. McCarthy playing QB1 (via ESPN)

Darnold got the first series last week against the Las Vegas Raiders. But the rookie was impressive in the 30 snaps he played, more than any other 1st round rookie QB, in their preseason debut.

Related: Raiders Were Reportedly Impressed By JJ McCarthy

After JJ’s performance, it made sense to give him more run with the starters. Any missed time this week would put that availability in jeopardy. If McCarthy doesn’t travel at all, then his early-season prognosis for QB1 duties goes entirely out the window.

When will J.J. McCarthy be back for Minnesota Vikings?

It’s a wait and see game when it comes to McCarthy. Head coach Kevin O’Connell talked of the situation as general soreness that players experience. However, the rookie is undergoing more testing and uncertain travel plans call that into a bit more question.

“Out of precaution we’re going to continue an evaluation on him and get some more testing done. [He is a] very important player, obviously, so we want to make sure we’re smart before he participates, making sure we have a good understanding of where he’s at.”

Kevin O’Connell on J.J. McCarthy (via ESPN)

It makes an abundance of sense to be cautious with McCarthy. The Minnesota Vikings grabbed the signal caller as their quarterback of the future. They must keep that mindset in the forefront when positioning him for health.

Related: Stephon Gilmore Leaves Vikings Visit Empty-Handed

McCarthy could undergo testing and receive the all clear. That would be an ideal scenario, but for now, seems like it isn’t going to be that simple.