EAGAN, Minn. — In the world of the NFL, where first-round quarterbacks from the previous year’s draft were busy establishing themselves on the field, J.J. McCarthy began his professional journey somewhat differently. Circumstances led him to spend his rookie season focused on film study and rehabilitation activities with the Minnesota Vikings.
McCarthy, sidelined by a torn meniscus in his right knee, became the first quarterback since the commencement of the common draft era in 1967 to miss all games in his debut season due to injury. Despite this setback, he considers the year anything but wasted, finding solace and motivation in his gratitude journal.
Reflecting on his recovery journey, McCarthy spoke about the significant mental tools he adopted during his college years at Michigan, which served him well following his injury during an exhibition game—requiring surgery shortly afterward. “I’ve learned to appreciate the little things we often take for granted, like simply being able to walk or see clearly. Starting my day with meditation and noting what I’m thankful for provided me the perspective needed to keep going,” McCarthy shared.
Recent footage revealed McCarthy participating energetically in practice sessions during the early phase of the offseason training program. He joined fellow offensive players, exuding enthusiasm and confidence with each throw. McCarthy expressed feeling more prepared and healthier now than prior to his injury last August.
“I felt like as soon as I could start throwing again, I was back. I was eager and felt even better than expected,” McCarthy noted during his first local media interview since early September.
In March, the Vikings considered the possibility of bringing Aaron Rodgers on board; however, they ultimately shifted focus to bolstering their faith in McCarthy as their lead quarterback. With the departure of quarterbacks Sam Darnold, Daniel Jones, and Nick Mullens in free agency, only Brett Rypien remained on the roster besides McCarthy. A seasoned veteran like Rodgers was an attractive option, but as a four-time NFL MVP, he wouldn’t likely be content as a backup. Consequently, the Vikings opted to trade for Sam Howell, who had started every game for Washington in the 2023 season and recently spent time with Seattle.
While acknowledging Rodgers’ expertise, McCarthy kept his concentration firmly on his personal growth and daily practice routines. “He’s one of the greatest, but my focus was consistently on honing my skills each day to become the best player I can be,” McCarthy stated.
The Vikings have made notable improvements to their offensive lineup, which was among the top in the league in terms of scoring and yards last season. With over $53 million invested in signing right guard Will Fries and center Ryan Kelly from Indianapolis, they also re-signed running back Aaron Jones and procured backup Jordan Mason through a trade with San Francisco. During the recent draft, they further strengthened their offensive line by selecting left guard Donovan Jackson in the first round and boosting their receiving options with third-round pick Tai Felton.
With a stellar 14-win season behind them, the Vikings are positioning themselves for immediate success despite having McCarthy, who has yet to take a snap in a regular-season NFL game. Nevertheless, McCarthy is brimming with enthusiasm about proving himself as a starter.
“I truly feel prepared to start based on the hard work I’ve put in and the confidence I have in my capabilities,” McCarthy said.
Vikings’ head coach Kevin O’Connell recently praised McCarthy’s dedication to rehabilitation and absorbing the team’s strategic plans. Having regained his optimal playing weight of approximately 215 pounds following an extensive conditioning program, McCarthy appears poised to take on the upcoming challenges.
Facing a high-stakes season surrounded by a capable roster, McCarthy is no stranger to thriving amid chaos—a skill he attributes to managing attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder from a young age. “I feel at home when the lights shine brightest and the stakes are highest,” McCarthy proclaimed, fully aware of the additional pressure waiting in the wings.