Minnesota Vikings rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy will be sidelined for the season following surgery on his right knee. The surgery was necessary to repair a torn meniscus sustained during his preseason debut against Las Vegas last weekend.
McCarthy, a former standout from the University of Michigan, had shown promise during training camp and was expected to serve as the backup to starting quarterback Sam Darnold. The news of McCarthy's season-ending injury was announced by Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell as the team prepared for joint practices with the Browns.
O'Connell expressed confidence in McCarthy's abilities and potential, highlighting the progress the young quarterback had made in recent months. Despite the setback, the team remains optimistic about McCarthy's future in the NFL.
Following his preseason performance against the Raiders, where McCarthy completed 11 of 17 passes for 188 yards with two touchdowns and one interception, he reported knee soreness to the team. Subsequent imaging tests revealed the meniscus tear, leading to the decision for surgery.
Initially, the Vikings had hoped McCarthy would only miss a month of action. However, the severity of the injury necessitated a longer recovery period, ruling him out for the entire season. In McCarthy's absence, Nick Mullens will step in as the team's backup quarterback.
O'Connell expressed confidence in Mullens' ability to fulfill the backup role effectively, emphasizing the importance of having a reliable option behind Darnold.
Despite the setback, the Vikings remain focused on McCarthy's rehabilitation and eventual return to the field. The team is committed to supporting McCarthy through his recovery process and looks forward to his future contributions to the franchise.
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