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J.J. McCarthy Sits Out Finale With Deltoid Sprain

8/29/2026

45 10 Full Breakdown

Summary

McCarthy Out

Quarterback J.J. McCarthy will sit out the finale against the Denver Broncos because of a minor deltoid sprain.
Head coach Kevin O'Connell wanted him to start, but McCarthy said he was not comfortable playing.
The injury occurred during Minnesota’s 13-3 preseason loss to the Baltimore Ravens on August 22.
Carson Wentz and second-year Max Brosmer will start at quarterback for the Broncos game.

Summary

McCarthy Roster Decision

Vikings face a roster deadline that could force a decision on J.J. McCarthy’s spot.
The team must choose between McCarthy and Max Brosmer for the backup behind Kyler Murray.
Placing McCarthy on short-term IR would free a roster spot while he recovers.
McCarthy, drafted 10th overall in 2024, has two years left on his rookie deal.
In 2025, McCarthy completed 57.6% for 1,632 yards with 12 interceptions and 11 touchdowns.

History

Historical Context

In August 2016, rookie quarterback Teddy Bridgewater, who had signed a four-year $6.85 million contract in 2014, tore his ACL during practice, prompting the Vikings to trade for Sam Bradford and reshuffle their quarterback depth chart. The injury forced the team to rely on backups, a pattern that reappears in 2024 as coach Kevin O'Connell weighs placing J.J. McCarthy on short-term IR to free a roster spot for Max Brosmer.

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McCarthy Out

Quarterback J.J. McCarthy will sit out the finale against the Denver Broncos because of a minor deltoid sprain.
Head coach Kevin O'Connell wanted him to start, but McCarthy said he was not comfortable playing.
The injury occurred during Minnesota’s 13-3 preseason loss to the Baltimore Ravens on August 22.
Carson Wentz and second-year Max Brosmer will start at quarterback for the Broncos game.

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