J.J. McCarthy’s NFL journey has been full of heartbreaks so far. He faced a season-ending injury in the preseason game during his rookie year, and his second year was also full of injuries, which resulted in him missing various games.
During the Vikings’ last game of the season against the Green Bay Packers, which ended with a 16-3 win for Minnesota, fans saw another sign of McCarthy’s inability to stay healthy.
McCarthy had to leave the game in the third quarter as he aggravated his hand injury, due to which he also missed the Christmas game against the Lions.
Talking about whether he has done enough this year to be the Vikings QB in 2026, McCarthy said that while it may be the case today, it might not be tomorrow, as nothing is ever promised, and he has to put in the work every day to earn his spot.
“MF gon get injured in training camp.” one fan reacted.
“Look, he’s a cool guy and I like his attitude and dedication to being better. He’s a bit cheesy sometimes but I guess that makes him stand out. As a player though he’s too raw. Times have changed where QBs can develop and we are / were a franchise in a win now mode.” another fan added.
“People thought a horrible college QB would be a good NFL Qb because he handed the ball off to Blake Corum and had a dominant defense to win a National Championship.” another fan wrote.
“The problem is his availability. He’s played in 10/34 potential games with 4 separate injuries. Regardless of anyone’s thoughts on his ability to develop, dude needs ti find a way to stay in the field.” another fan commented.
“That is not the answer from a franchise QB.” another fan added.
“Has the arm strength, struggles with accuracy, but CAN throw dimes. Easily rattled, moderately mobile. VERY injury prone…. Jury is very much out.” another fan said.
#Vikings QB JJ McCarthy on if he’s earned the right to be the starter in 2026:
“After today, maybe. But tomorrow, there’s nothing promised. The next day, there’s nothing promised… I’m just trying to make daily deposits to make sure I’m in this house for a long time.” pic.twitter.com/OGqeDFboKn
— VikingzFanPage (@vikingzfanpage) January 4, 2026
Justin Jefferson Gets Real on Wanting To See J.J. McCarthy As Vikings QB in 2026
McCarthy, who was picked by the Vikings in the 2024 NFL Draft as the No. 10th overall pick, has struggled quite a few times throughout the season, which has drawn frustrated reactions from the team’s star WR Justin Jefferson as well a few times.
Talking about seeing McCarthy take the QB1 spot again in 2026, Jefferson said that while it’s not his job, he would love to see the ex-Michigan star get the opportunity to prove to everybody that he is a top-tier quarterback.
“So I would love to have him. I would love to work with him and show everybody that he is that No. 1 guy.” Jefferson said.
McCarthy faced a hand injury, an ankle injury and a concussion in the 2025 NFL season.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball!
