ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter reported that Minnesota Vikings rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy could undergo surgery for a torn meniscus in his right knee. The former Michigan standout complained about knee soreness, which led to the discovery of his injury.
Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell confirmed McCarthy’s injury, which could sideline him for a while. However, the injury’s severity will determine how long he will be out of action. Sports injury analyst Dr. Evan Jeffries, DPT, tweeted that the type of surgery will determine McCarthy’s absence.
If it’s a meniscectomy, he could be out for four to six weeks, allowing him to rejoin the squad midseason. However, a meniscus repair has a recovery period of up to six months, keeping him out of the season. If McCarthy undergoes the latter, he will likely be on injured reserve before the season starts.
Timeline will be determine based on surgery
— Dr. Evan Jeffries, DPT (@GameInjuryDoc) August 13, 2024
Menisectomy 4-6 weeks
Meniscus repair 4-6 months
Short term vs long term health
While McCarthy has progressed during training camp, O’Connell did not declare him as their Week 1 starter. Instead, he had Sam Darnold as QB1 while they closely watched McCarthy’s development.
Once McCarthy goes behind center, Vikings fans hope he can bring the same skills and leadership that allowed him to lead the Wolverines to the 2024 CFP National Championship.
-Lance Fernandez