J.J. McCarthy Misses Vikings’ Preseason Finale Amid Ankle Concerns

The Minnesota Vikings announced that quarterback J.J. McCarthy will not play in the preseason finale against the Denver Broncos because of an ankle injury sustained in the second preseason matchup. The injury was described as minor and “day-to-day,” and the team does not view it as a long-term issue. His absence eliminates a final opportunity to showcase his abilities before the league-mandated 53-man roster cut deadline.

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McCarthy was selected 10th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. His rookie season was lost to a torn meniscus, and the 2025 season was limited to ten games because of a high right-ankle sprain, a concussion, and a hairline fracture in his right thumb. In 2025 he threw 12 interceptions to 11 touchdowns, completed 57.6 % of his passes for 1,632 yards (6.7 YPA), and added 181 rushing yards with four rushing touchdowns.

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Entering the 2026 preseason, McCarthy was the primary backup to starter Kyler Murray, with veteran Carson Wentz and second-year quarterback Max Brosmer also on the depth chart. Coach Kevin O’Connell indicated that the backup role would be competitive between McCarthy and Wentz, especially if McCarthy could return for the final preseason game.

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• August 22 – McCarthy suffered a deltoid sprain during Minnesota’s 13-3 preseason loss to the Baltimore Ravens. O’Connell clarified that the injury was not a high-ankle sprain.

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• August 28 – The Athletic’s Alec Lewis reported that McCarthy was not comfortable enough to play, confirming his absence from the Broncos game.

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• 2026 preseason – Completed 9 of 17 passes for 115 yards, with no touchdowns and no interceptions (NFL.com).

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• 2025 regular season – 57.6 % completion rate, 1,632 passing yards, 11 touchdowns, 12 interceptions, 6.7 YPA, 181 rushing yards, four rushing touchdowns.

Bleacher Report

• “All along, really wanted him to be able to start this final preseason game,” — Kevin O’Connell, head coach

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NFL Media’s Kevin Patra suggested that if another team shows interest, the Vikings should “jump on it,” indicating that a trade is being considered but is not yet a priority.

USA Today

• “I think these reps are important for him,” — Kevin O’Connell, head coach

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With McCarthy unavailable for the final preseason contest, the Vikings will rely on Carson Wentz and Max Brosmer to compete for the backup quarterback spot. The team must finalize its 53-man roster before the league deadline, and McCarthy’s future—whether he remains on the roster, is placed on short-term injured reserve, or becomes a trade candidate—will be clarified in the days following the August 28 game.

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