What Happened to JJ McCarthy? Latest Injury Update Explained

October 23, 2025 | 10:22 PM ET — Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy remains sidelined with a high ankle sprain that has kept him out since Week 2. The injury, originally described as “moderate,” continues to sideline the team’s 2024 first-round pick despite visible agility shown during Thursday Night Football.

McCarthy was seen quickly jumping out of the way of a sideline collision during the Vikings’ matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers. The clip, which aired in the second quarter, triggered fan frustration across social media, with many questioning the true severity of his injury.

JJ McCarthy’s Injury Timeline and Team Update

Head coach Kevin O’Connell confirmed before Thursday’s 7:15 PM CT kickoff that McCarthy was still not cleared for return. He stated the quarterback must demonstrate “reactionary movement and athletic readiness” before rejoining active play. Despite the optimism around his workout progress, McCarthy has now missed six consecutive games.

The injury occurred during Minnesota’s Week 2 loss, leading to Carson Wentz taking over as the starting quarterback. According to multiple reports, including from NFL.com and SI.com, McCarthy’s high ankle sprain was initially expected to heal within 3–4 weeks, but recovery has been slower than anticipated.

McCarthy remains listed as inactive for Week 8 and will only be available as an emergency backup. O’Connell noted in a post-game press session around 9:50 PM CT that “McCarthy’s timeline hasn’t changed,” emphasizing the importance of long-term health over short-term gains.

Fan Reaction After Sideline Moment

At approximately 8:47 PM CT, cameras caught McCarthy on the sideline swiftly leaping aside to avoid Justin Jefferson, who was pushed out of bounds. Fans quickly reacted online, joking that “his ankle didn’t look so sprained.”

Comments flooded X (formerly Twitter):

• “That ankle don’t look so sprained.” — @Chives
• “He looks fine lmfao, soft benching confirmed.” — @BDP
• “Must have forgot about that high ankle sprain.” — @GrimCutty
• “He’ll need another 2–6 weeks per Schefter.” — @BeansTheSparrow

The ongoing skepticism has placed added pressure on both McCarthy and O’Connell as the Vikings continue to struggle offensively. The team’s record dropped below .500 following Thursday’s 23–16 loss to the Chargers, which ended at approximately 10:18 PM ET.

What This Means Going Forward

McCarthy’s prolonged absence, combined with his missed rookie season due to a knee injury, has raised durability concerns. The Vikings drafted him 10th overall in 2024, but he has now missed 23 of 25 possible games. For fans and fantasy managers, patience is running thin.

Unless cleared by team doctors before next week’s practices, McCarthy is unlikely to start in Week 9. O’Connell reiterated at 9:58 PM ET that “J.J. needs to be fully functional in every movement before we risk it.”

For now, the Vikings will continue with Carson Wentz under center while McCarthy’s return remains on hold. His progress will be reevaluated daily as the team approaches its next game week.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is JJ McCarthy’s current injury?

He is dealing with a high ankle sprain suffered in Week 2 against the Texans.

Q2: When was JJ McCarthy last seen on the field?

He last played on September 15, 2025, before exiting early in the first half.

Q3: When could JJ McCarthy return?

There is no confirmed timeline. Team officials will reassess his condition before Week 9.

Q4: Why are fans doubting the injury?

McCarthy was seen jumping away from a sideline collision during Thursday’s game, showing agility that led fans to question the severity of his sprain.

Q5: Who is starting for the Vikings while McCarthy is out?

Carson Wentz remains the starting quarterback until McCarthy is fully cleared.