How long will Vikings supporters have to wait for J.J. McCarthy to return from his injury

Another obstacle has been placed in the way of the Minnesota Vikings’ plans for J.J. McCarthy’s breakout season. McCarthy missed his whole rookie season because of a knee ailment, but he was forced to miss another game in Week 2 against Atlanta after suffering a high-ankle sprain. As the rookie quarterback continues his careful comeback, Carson Wentz was under center for Thursday Night Football against the Chargers, which drew large crowds.

J.J. McCarthy’s injury update: QB is out due to a high ankle sprain

According to Ben Goessling of The Minnesota Star Tribune, McCarthy is listed as inactive on Thursday but is still the backup third quarterback. Although his position as the backup quarterback allows him to play even if Wentz and backup Max Brosmer are down, this will be his sixth straight game missing. At first, it was thought that McCarthy’s ailment would only last two to three weeks. He even played through the Atlanta game, suggesting that it was not too serious.

According to head coach Kevin O’Connell, “He’s just not there yet.” He went on to say that if this week’s game had taken place on a Sunday rather than the short Thursday turnaround, McCarthy may have participated. O’Connell emphasized the team’s careful approach by saying, “He needs to be in a state where he could do his job for 60 minutes without having any setbacks or making his job more difficult than it needs to be.”

McCarthy has ten days to be ready for Week 9 against the Detroit Lions, according to the Vikings, who are reportedly carefully timing his return based on his previous sparse practice schedule.
What the Vikings could expect from McCarthy’s return
McCarthy only completed 58.5% of his throws for 301 yards, two touchdowns, and three interceptions in his two starts this season. His arm power and movement demonstrate why Minnesota selected him in the top ten of the draft, even if the statistics reveal growing pains. In McCarthy’s absence, Wentz has played well, going 2-2, but the long-term strategy centers on the growth of the rookie quarterback.

A healthy McCarthy might have a significant impact on Minnesota’s offensive prospects as they sit at the bottom of a close NFC North competition. His effectiveness and durability upon his comeback will be highly watched. In order to protect their young quarterback’s future and navigate the rest of the season with caution, the Vikings are placing a wager that patience now will pay off in stability and success later.