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J.J. McCarthy Gets Emotional Moments After Vikings-Bears

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Sep 9, 2025 6:07 AM ET

J.J. McCarthy put the entire NFL on notice with his outstanding performance in his debut for the Minnesota Vikings on Monday night. The former Michigan standout was unable to suit up last season after being selected as the 10th overall pick in the draft due to a knee injury. McCarthy, however, just showed the football world exactly what they’ve been missing in his first game as a pro.

McCarthy led Minnesota to an impressive comeback victory against the Chicago Bears, 27-24. It was Caleb Williams (21-of-35 passes for 210 yards and one touchdown, six carries for 58 yards and a rushing TD) and Co. who were on top for most of the NFC North rivalry clash. They ended the third quarter with a 17-6 lead and looked primed to secure an opening-night win in front of their home fans at Soldier Field.

McCarthy, however, had other plans. The 22-year-old QB went off in the fourth quarter, leading the charge for two touchdowns within the first six minutes of the final frame. The rookie, who threw a pick-six in the third quarter, capped off his incredible performance with a 14-yard rushing touchdown with less than three minutes left in the game.

That gave Minnesota a 27-17 lead, and there was just no coming back for Chicago from that point.

McCarthy, a native of Evanston, Illinois, could not help but get emotional shortly after the final whistle. During his postgame interview, the young QB sent a powerful message following his memorable debut.

"Getting a win — that's what I'll remember most," McCarthy said. "Just being here in the hometown, it's a dream come true. To all the kids out there, it's possible.

"I just love my guys, and I can't wait to get to work next week."

J.J. McCarthy on what he’ll remember most from this night: pic.twitter.com/0G1vyJQUwB
— Sean Borman (@SeanBormanNFL) September 9, 2025

This is a night McCarthy will never forget, but it is clear from his statement that he’s not going to let this one performance distract him from his objectives this season. At this point, McCarthy is just eager to get back to work and build on his awe-inspiring debut.

His next chance to make more waves will be on Sept. 14 as the Vikings take on the Atlanta Falcons. That will be McCarthy’s home debut at U.S. Bank Stadium, and the rookie will certainly want to make a statement in that one as well.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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