Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell said Sunday that rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy could be cleared from the NFL’s concussion protocol as early as Monday. If cleared, McCarthy would be in line to start in the team’s Week 14 matchup against the Washington Commanders.
McCarthy entered the concussion protocol last week following Minnesota’s Week 13 contest. Details surrounding the nature of the injury and the moment it occurred were not disclosed, but the team has been closely monitoring his progress throughout the week. Coach O’Connell expressed optimism regarding McCarthy’s condition and stated that the medical staff continues to evaluate him daily.
“J.J. is making encouraging progress through the protocol,” O’Connell said. “We’re hopeful he’ll be cleared heading into this week’s practices, and we’ll make decisions accordingly.”
The Vikings have not named a starting quarterback for Week 14, pending McCarthy’s status. The team has used multiple quarterbacks this season due to injuries and shifting performance, and McCarthy, a first-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, has started several games since being named the starter midseason. His development has been closely followed by the coaching staff and fans alike, with the rookie showing flashes of promise despite the team’s offensive inconsistencies.
Should McCarthy remain in protocol and be unavailable, Minnesota would likely turn to one of their veteran backups, who have split time under center earlier in the season.
The Vikings, currently in the mix for an NFC playoff spot, will host Washington in Week 14. Minnesota’s offensive game plan could be significantly influenced by McCarthy’s availability, as the team looks to stabilize its quarterback situation and build momentum heading into the final weeks of the regular season.
Additional updates are expected as the team resumes practice this week and McCarthy’s status becomes clearer.
