J.J. McCarthy #9 of the Michigan Wolverines
The injury bug has struck NFL training camps hard as the preseason enters its second week, and unfortunately, it has hit close to home for Minnesota Vikings fans, especially those with ties to the Michigan Wolverines. J.J. McCarthy
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In a major blow to the Vikings’ plans, rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy will miss the entire 2024 season due to a meniscus injury. The news was confirmed after surgery revealed that McCarthy underwent a meniscus repair rather than the initially anticipated meniscectomy. The latter would have kept him sidelined for only four to six weeks, potentially allowing him to return early in the regular season. Instead, the repair procedure extends his recovery time, effectively ruling him out for the year.
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This turn of events is particularly disheartening for the Vikings, who had high hopes for McCarthy after selecting him tenth overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. In Week 1 of the preseason, McCarthy had shown promising signs of his potential, completing 11-of-17 passes for 188 yards and two touchdowns, along with 18 rushing yards. His deep throws and playmaking ability had impressed both fans and analysts alike, indicating that he could be a key piece of the Vikings’ future.
With McCarthy sidelined, the Vikings will turn to veteran Sam Darnold as their starting quarterback. Darnold, initially expected to hold the position temporarily while McCarthy adjusted to the pro game, will now need to lead the team throughout the entire season. This shift in plans means that the transition to McCarthy as the long-term starter will be delayed until 2025.
The Vikings’ organization and fans alike will have to wait patiently for McCarthy’s return, but for now, the focus shifts to Darnold and the rest of the team as they prepare for the challenges of the upcoming season. This unexpected setback underscores the unpredictable nature of football and the importance of resilience in the face of adversity.
