J.J. McCarthy has not completely recovered from thehigh ankle sprainwhich has kept him out of the last three games, still working through thefinal stagetesting the injury and gradually increasing speed againthe Minnesota Vikings and their offense.
The question of whether McCarthy is returnings as the starting quarterback Sunday against Philadelphia or Carson Wentz continues to lead remained officially unaddressed Wednesday by coach Kevin O’Connell, but the message this week regarding how much McCarthy needs to improve mechanically has clearly indicated the team's preference to gradually introduce him.
McCarthy, in his first conversation with journalists since his right ankle twisted during a tackle at the sideline in the second game of the season, mentioned that he hasn't fully recovered yet.
He is still on track to come back within the original schedule, ranging from two to six weeks, which was provided following the injury.
It's disappointing and one of those really frustrating injuries," McCarthy stated, "but I'm simply focusing on working hard to return to 100% as quickly as possible.
However, the injury could be more severe than first believed.ESPN is reportingMcCarthy obtained second opinions, and his estimated time to return could extend as long as six weeks.
Me, being selfish, I'll play if it's, you know, off or not, but we need to be smart here and realize there are many factors involved," McCarthy said. "And you know, in the end, I'll just do what I'm told and try to improve as quickly as possible.
O'Connell, who spent most ofthe bye weekworking with his apprentice on fundamental passing techniques that the 10th overall selection in the 2024 draft hasn't had sufficient opportunity to refine due to his injuries, noted both McCarthy and Wentz would alternate with the starting offense during practice.
I believe the most important aspect is getting him back into uniform on grass, getting real live repetitions of pass rush and taking drops, and applying some of the things he's worked really hard on," O'Connell said. "I'm having a great time coaching him.
If this seems somewhat like an off-season update, it's because McCarthy has had very limited practice and gameplay over the past 18 months since being selected in the draft, leaving O'Connell, quarterbacks coach Josh McCown, and the rest of the coaching staff still in a teaching phase in many aspects.
Everyone in this role and in other roles and different professions, they're constantly working on refining that aspect of their skill, the fundamentals, the basics," McCarthy said. "So it was really great to get back on the field and apply it but also receive that knowledge and guidance from those guys.
The Vikings have consistently stated they are not using the injury as a justification for giving McCarthy additional time to observe and gain experience from O'Connell, McCown, and Wentz. Although they must evaluate him sooner rather than later to determine if McCarthy is the franchise quarterback they intend to commit to beyond his affordable rookie contract, there's no sense in assessing his performance if he isn't able to effectively push off his right foot.
"This is a distinct, genuine injury where occasionally the most challenging aspect is the trust required to reach the final stage of game-related movements and sensations," O'Connell stated.
Wentz, who has played for six teams in six seasons and is in his 10th year in the league, dismissed the idea of any discomfort or uncertainty for him as McCarthy transitions between being injured and returning as the starter.
The charm of it is that I've experienced both roles in my career up to now," Wentz stated. "I have what works for me and what prepares me to play, and that's what I'll continue doing.
Other injury updates
Apart from the quarterback situation, no other issue has been more on the minds of the Vikings this season than injuries.
In the initial injury update of the week, the Vikings received mostly encouraging information. Wentz took part fully, indicating he is expected to be the starting quarterback on Sunday.
On the opposite side of the field, linebacker Blake Cashman was fully active as well, which should greatly benefit the defense. Cashman, who sustained a hamstring injury during the first week's game against the Bears, provides the team with significant versatility. He also serves as the primary communicator on defense, as the defensive coordinator Brian Flores relays the plays to him.
I feel fantastic," Cashman said this week. "Over the last four weeks, I've had to be patient and get my leg back in shape, but when you're able to return to the field with your teammates, you start feeling like your old self again.
The Vikings will rely on Cashman to limit Philadelphia's rushing attack and stop Saquon Barkley. Minnesota has had difficulties defending the run this season, allowing 140 yards in their most recent game against Cleveland, which is far from the powerful running game the Eagles possess.
Guard Michael Jurgens actively took part in practice, which will benefit the offensive line's depth. However, rookie first-round selection Donovan Jackson remains restricted due to wrist surgery. Initially, it was expected he would return after the bye week, having missed the games against Pittsburgh and Cleveland abroad, but the Vikings are not rushing his return. Right tackle Brian O'Neill also faced limitations because of a knee injury and is likely to miss Sunday's game.
Another key defender, edge rusher Andrew Van Ginkle, is facing a neck injury. O'Connell mentioned there has been improvement, but it seems they also need to proceed with caution regarding Van Ginkle.
He's improving," O'Connell stated. "He'll be focusing on a secondary field early this week. What I'm noticing is his workload increasing as we progress. I don't have an update on his availability for Sunday just yet, but he's crucial to bring back.