Bad news has now become devastating news for Viking rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy. After having surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee, it's been reported he will now miss the entire 2024 season, a major setback for the young QB.
The Vikings reported the news Wednesday afternoon. The surgery revealed that a repair was necessary and that will keep him out all year according to head coach Kevin O'Connell.
O’Connell announced the original diagnosis Tuesday. McCarthy was hurt at some point Saturday during his exhibition game debut, when he went 11 for 17 for 188 yards, two touchdowns and one interception against Las Vegas.
McCarthy reported persistent soreness to the team when players reconvened Monday, and the 10th overall pick in the draft out of national champion Michigan was sent for further examination.
O'Connell said Tuesday that he felt bad for McCarthy and that was before the team knew he'd miss the entire year.
"You hurt for him just in the short term here because he, you know, had such a daily process, focus on all those things that I was really looking for in a young player at the position," O'Connell explained. "And first and foremost, we'll get this procedure done. We'll make sure that we're doing the right things for him to have the best possible recovery."
The rehabilitation for a full repair is much longer than if there’s just a partial tear and only a trim is needed, but the severity is typically not known until the procedure takes place.
“This is totally a medical decision. Certainly what’s best for the long-term health of J.J. McCarthy will be the priority,” O’Connell said.
The Vikings traveled Tuesday for two days of joint practices and a preseason game against the Cleveland Browns. Sam Darnold has been on top of the depth chart at quarterback all spring and summer and will now be solidified as the starter to open the season. Nick Mullens will be the clear backup, with Jaren Hall also on the roster entering his second year. O’Connell said the Vikings had no immediate plan to add another quarterback.
“Sam’s had a really good camp, and my confidence level in Sam is very, very high at this point,” O’Connell said. “I’m looking forward to seeing him continue his progression.”