Vikings Rule Out JJ McCarthy for Chargers Clash Amid Ankle Injury Setback

The Minnesota Vikings will be without starting quarterback JJ McCarthy for their Week 8 Thursday Night Football game. He is sidelined for the matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers due to an ongoing ankle issue. Veteran Carson Wentz will start in his place. This marks the sixth consecutive game McCarthy has missed.

Coach Kevin O’Connell confirmed the decision following McCarthy’s recent workout. The team determined his ankle was not yet strong enough for game action. The short week of a Thursday game also factored into the cautious approach.

Injury Timeline and Team Decision

JJ McCarthy sustained the ankle injury during a hard tackle in his second NFL start. That was back in Week 2 against the Atlanta Falcons. He has been working his way back to full health since.

According to reports from ESPN, McCarthy was listed as ‘questionable’ ahead of the Chargers game. O’Connell stated the medical staff was encouraged by his progress. However, they ultimately decided he was not quite ready for a full game.

“If this was a Sunday game, maybe it would be a little bit different story,” O’Connell said. He emphasized the decision was about McCarthy’s effectiveness and avoiding a setback. The goal is to ensure he can perform his job for 60 minutes without complication.

Wentz Steps In as Vikings Navigate Season

With McCarthy out, Carson Wentz gets another start. The tenth-year veteran is on his sixth team in as many seasons. He has led the Vikings to a 2-2 record in his four starts this year, bringing the team’s overall record to 3-3.

Rookie Max Brosmer will serve as the primary backup against the Chargers. Despite being inactive, JJ McCarthy will dress as the emergency third quarterback. This provides the team with a crucial safety net.

The Vikings’ injury report also listed several other key players. Fullback C.J. Ham and linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel were ruled out. Key offensive linemen Christian Darrisaw and Brian O’Neill were among those listed as questionable.

The Vikings are taking a cautious, long-term view with their rookie quarterback’s health. The JJ McCarthy injury situation will continue to be monitored closely, with the team hoping for a return after their mini-bye weekend.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the specific nature of JJ McCarthy’s injury?

He is dealing with an ankle injury. It was sustained from a hard tackle during the Week 2 game against the Atlanta Falcons. The team is managing his recovery to prevent any long-term issues.

How has the team performed with Carson Wentz at quarterback?

The Vikings have a 2-2 record in the four games started by Carson Wentz. His experience has helped keep the team competitive. Their overall record for the season is now 3-3.

When is JJ McCarthy expected to return to play?

There is no official return date announced yet. Coach O’Connell suggested a Sunday game might have offered a better chance to play. The team hopes he can return after the extended break following the Thursday night game.

Who is backing up Carson Wentz with McCarthy out?

Rookie quarterback Max Brosmer is the primary backup for this game. JJ McCarthy will also be in uniform as the designated emergency third quarterback. This is a standard NFL roster procedure for such situations.

Why did the Vikings sign Carson Wentz?

They signed him to provide experienced depth at the quarterback position. This move has proven crucial following the injury to their rookie starter. Wentz has extensive starting experience across multiple NFL teams.

Trusted Sources

ESPN, Associated Press, NFL Network.