The Minnesota Vikings are once again grappling with the injury bug as the preseason grinds on. On Wednesday, the team confirmed that rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy will miss the entire season after undergoing meniscus surgery. This news was followed by another blow as second-year wide receiver Jordan Addison left practice with an ankle injury sustained during a joint session with the Cleveland Browns.
Addison’s injury occurred while he was attempting a contested catch, leading to him being carted off the field, as reported by Alec Lewis of The Athletic. However, Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell offered some reassurance, downplaying the severity of the injury.
“We’ll make sure we go through the processes and get some pictures of knowing exactly what it really is,” O’Connell said, via Tom Withers of the Associated Press. “But I think he’s going to be all right. You hate to see that, especially early in practice like it was.”
By Thursday, O’Connell provided a more positive update, stating, “I don’t see him missing any extended time,” according to Field Level Media (h/t ESPN). This comes as a relief for a Vikings team that can ill afford another significant injury, particularly to a player crucial to their passing attack.
The Vikings are already dealing with the absence of tight end T.J. Hockenson, who is recovering from torn ACL and MCL injuries in his right knee. Hockenson’s status for the start of the season remains uncertain, with a possible stint on injured reserve looming.
Addison, who is poised to serve as the team’s No. 2 wide receiver behind three-time Pro Bowler Justin Jefferson, showed promise in his rookie season. The 22-year-old tallied 70 receptions for 911 yards and 10 touchdowns over 17 games, solidifying his role as a key target in the Vikings’ offense.
With McCarthy sidelined, veteran quarterback Sam Darnold is now the front-runner for the starting job. Addison’s availability will be crucial for Darnold as the Vikings look to navigate a challenging season ahead, aiming to keep their offense potent despite the mounting injuries.
