Latest on Vikings QB’s rehab status after knee surgery

Minnesota Vikings freshman running back JJ McCarthy continues his road to recovery from two knee surgeries that have sidelined him for the entire 2024 season.According to SKOR North’s Darren Wolfson on Thursday, McCarthy is “doing well” in the rehab process.

The 2024 first-round draft pick underwent initial surgery in August after experiencing discomfort in his right knee during the preseason. McCarthy showed promise on his debut against The Las Vegas Raiderscompleting 11 of 17 passes for 188 yards and two touchdowns.

A second operation followed in November due to swelling problems. However, Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell claimed the fullback’s recovery time remained unchanged. The typical recovery period for McCarthy meniscus repair is six to eight months.

Wolfson’s latest report suggests a measured approach to McCarthy’s return;

“Is he a full first day of OTAs? Or is he a full mandatory June minicamp, that’s probably a little aggressive based on the injury, the initial injury, the initial surgery,” Wolfson noted.

Meanwhile, Sam DarnoldThe Vikings’ spectacular season has complicated the Vikings quarterback situation. The veteran signal caller earned his first Pro Bowl selection after throwing for 4,153 yards and 35 touchdowns while leading Minnesota to a 14-2 record.

JJ McCarthy trade rumors intensify as Giants show interest

Uncertainty surrounding JJ McCarthy’s future in Minnesota has fueled trade discussions. ESPN’s Mel Kiper believes it New York Giants could offer their No. 3 pick in the upcoming draft for McCarthy’s services.

“JJ McCarthy is a year younger than Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders. He had a year, he’s coming off an injury. But he’s a kid, if you look at his grades last year compared to this year’s quarterback grades, he’d be the No. 1 guy,” he said. Kiper on “Unsportsmanlike Radio” on Wednesday.

The Giants’ potential interest stems from their previous evaluation of McCarthy. The team hosted him in a private meeting last Easter Sunday before finally choosing a recipient Malik Nabers with the sixth pick in the 2024 draft.

McCarthy’s college credentials back up the trade buzz. He led Michigan to the 2023 national championship, racking up 2,991 passing yards with a 22-4 touchdown-to-interception ratio. His 72.3% completion rate and 167.4 passer rating led the Big Ten.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports that multiple NFL teams could be in the market for McCarthy, given the limited talent at quarterback in the upcoming draft. The Seattle Seahawks have emerged as another potential suitor, with Colin Cowherd suggesting they could offer more options for the young cornerback.

The Vikings’ decision likely depends on Darnold’s performance in the playoffs. A long postseason streak could solidify Darnold’s position as the franchise quarterback, potentially making McCarthy available via trade. For now, JJ McCarthy is focusing on his rehabilitation, with the goal of returning to full strength for the 2025 season.