Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy Set for Knee Surgery

Minnesota Vikings rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy will undergo knee surgery after tests revealed a meniscus issue, according to NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero. The surgery is expected to sideline McCarthy for the remainder of the 2023 NFL season.

Minnesota Vikings rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy will undergo knee surgery after tests revealed a meniscus issue, NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero reported on Tuesday. The surgery is expected to sideline McCarthy for the remainder of the 2023 NFL season.

McCarthy, who was selected by the Vikings in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft, has been a standout performer during training camp and the preseason. He has shown a strong arm and good decision-making, and he has impressed coaches with his leadership and work ethic.

Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy Set for Knee Surgery

However, McCarthy's promising rookie season has been cut short by this knee injury. The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that cushions the knee joint. A meniscus tear can cause pain, swelling, and instability.

The Vikings have not provided a specific timeline for McCarthy's return, but it is likely that he will miss the entire 2023 season. This is a significant setback for the Vikings, who were hoping that McCarthy could develop into a long-term starter at quarterback.

With McCarthy out for the season, the Vikings will likely turn to veteran Kirk Cousins as their starting quarterback. Cousins, who is entering his 12th NFL season, is a proven veteran who has led the Vikings to two NFC North division championships.

However, Cousins is not as dynamic a playmaker as McCarthy. He is more of a traditional pocket passer who relies on his accuracy and decision-making. It remains to be seen if Cousins can lead the Vikings to the playoffs in McCarthy's absence.

The Vikings also have two other quarterbacks on their roster: Sean Mannion and Kellen Mond. Mannion is a veteran backup with limited starting experience. Mond is a former third-round pick who has shown promise in preseason games.

However, neither Mannion nor Mond is considered a long-term solution at quarterback for the Vikings. The team will likely need to explore other options, such as signing a free agent or trading for a veteran quarterback, if McCarthy is unable to return to full strength next season.

The Vikings are scheduled to open the 2023 NFL season on September 11th against the Green Bay Packers. It is unclear who will be the Vikings' starting quarterback in that game, but it is likely that it will be Cousins.