The Vikings have announced quarterback J.J. McCarthy has been traded to the New York Giants in exchange for a fifth round draft pick. The Vikings announced the trade Monday pending McCarthy passing a physical.
McCarthy is a former first round draft pick out of Michigan, and had been relegated to third string behind Kyler Murray and Carson Wentz after struggling as a starter last year.
McCarthy reportedly was competing with Murray for the starting job, but head coach Kevin O'Connell handed the reigns to Murray who signed a one-year deal to come to Minnesota from Arizona. After the preseason, O'Connell said he felt more comfortable with Wentz in the backup role while McCarthy "develops."
Wentz helped the Vikings beat both Green Bay and Chicago after Murray suffered a concussion after just 11 plays in the season opener. McCarthy had not played yet this year.
Injuries also plagued McCarthy who missed his entire rookie season due to knee surgery, and then dealt with a number of issues last year after being named the starter. He played in 10 games despite a high ankle sprain, a concussion, and a hairline fracture in his right hand, with the team winning six of those starts.
The Giants made the aggressive move days after Jaxson Dart had surgery on his left knee that will sideline him for at least the rest of the regular season.
Jameis Winston started and beat Tennessee on Sunday, despite not scoring a touchdown and having just 238 yards of offense. Coach John Harbaugh said afterward that Winston would get the nod again this Sunday against Arizona.
It's unclear what New York's QB situation will be moving forward after adding McCarthy, the 10th pick in the 2024 draft.
The Vikings are coming off a win in Tampa Bay Sunday, and host Miami at U.S. Bank Stadium this coming Sunday.
We expect to hear from Viking coach Kevin O'Connell later Monday during his regular update for the media.
