J.J. McCarthy Injury Update: Is He Playing Tonight vs. Chargers?

Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy will not play tonight against the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 8. He is still recovering from the ankle injury he suffered in Week 2. Head coach Kevin O’Connell has named Carson Wentz the starter for Thursday night.

McCarthy is listed as questionable on the final report. The team plans to keep him in the emergency third quarterback role. The decision comes on a short week and reflects a cautious approach.

Official Status, Starter Named, and What It Means

O’Connell confirmed Wentz as QB1 for this matchup. Wentz has appeared in four games and the Vikings are 2–2 in his starts. Undrafted rookie Max Brosmer will serve as the primary backup.

McCarthy’s recovery has stretched longer than expected. He missed his entire rookie season with a knee injury. This year he opened with two starts before the ankle setback.

Before the injury, McCarthy completed 58.5% of his passes for 301 yards. He threw two touchdowns and three interceptions. The staff remains optimistic about his long-term outlook, but they will not rush him back.

Market movement reflects the quarterback news. The Chargers opened as a field-goal favorite at most books. The spread ticked to 3.5 points on Thursday morning with a total in the mid-40s.

Wentz has handled a shoulder issue this season. He practiced in full on Wednesday and carries no game-day designation. Minnesota expects a full workload from him tonight.

Team messaging suggests Week 9 at Detroit is the next realistic checkpoint for McCarthy. That game falls on November 2. His status will depend on how the ankle responds over the next several days.

How the QB Decision Shapes Tonight’s Game

Expect a veteran-driven plan with Wentz. Quick reads and defined throws can steady the offense. Minnesota should lean on protection help and a balanced script early.

The Chargers defense has generated pressure in waves. Keeping Wentz clean is the key for explosive plays. A steady run game and play-action shots can keep the sticks moving.

For bettors, the QB clarity narrows the range of outcomes. The Chargers’ slight edge aligns with the spread move. Props tied to Vikings pass volume and sack totals may also shift.

For fans, the long view still points to McCarthy. The Vikings want him healthy for the stretch run. Preserving mobility and lower-body strength after an ankle sprain is crucial.

Bottom line: J.J. McCarthy is out tonight as he continues ankle rehab. Carson Wentz starts for the Vikings against the Chargers. McCarthy’s next real shot is Week 9 if the ankle responds well.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Is J.J. McCarthy playing tonight?

No. He is inactive as a quarterback option and will be the emergency third QB only.

Q2: Who is starting for the Vikings at quarterback?

Carson Wentz starts. Max Brosmer is the backup. McCarthy is emergency only.

Q3: What is J.J. McCarthy’s injury timeline?

He suffered an ankle injury in Week 2. The team will reassess ahead of Week 9 at Detroit on November 2.

Q4: How did the betting odds change?

The Chargers moved from -3 to around -3.5 on Thursday morning. Totals are posted in the mid-40s at major books.

Q5: How has Carson Wentz played so far?

He has gone 2–2 as the starter with over 1,000 passing yards. He practiced fully this week and has no designation.