J.J. McCarthy’s Ankle Still Not 100% as Vikings Await Update

Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy said Wednesday that his recovery from a high right ankle sprain is progressing but still not complete. Speaking publicly for the first time since the injury on September 14, McCarthy described the injury as “really annoying” and admitted his ankle is “getting there,” though not fully healed.

McCarthy revealed he received multiple “well-respected second opinions” that suggested a recovery timeline of up to six weeks. He was limited in practice on Wednesday as he continues his rehabilitation.

When asked whether he felt ready to play, the rookie joked, “I’d play if my ankle were cut off,” before adding, “But we’ve got to be smart here and understand there’s a lot of things that go into play. At the end of the day, I’m just going to do what I’m told and try to get better as fast as possible.”

O’Connell Taking Patient Approach with Young Quarterback

Head coach Kevin O’Connell has consistently said he wants McCarthy fully healthy before returning to the field to protect his mechanics and mobility. O’Connell and his offensive staff have used the Vikings’ bye week to take McCarthy through individualized throwing drills, focusing on footwork and pocket movement.

“I think the big thing is just getting him back on the grass in uniform, practicing, getting real live reps of a pass rush and taking drops,” O’Connell said. “He’s worked really hard as he’s gotten to that phase of his rehab. Then, instant dialogue about what he’s able to do and how it feels — we’re having a blast coaching him.”

O’Connell hasn’t named a starter for Sunday’s home game against the Philadelphia Eagles, but signs point to veteran Carson Wentz making his fourth consecutive start.

Wentz Likely to Start Again as Vikings Eye Eagles Clash

Since McCarthy’s injury, Wentz has guided Minnesota to a 2–1 record while dealing with a sore left shoulder suffered during a Week 5 scramble against Cleveland. The former Eagles quarterback practiced fully on Wednesday and acknowledged he’s working to avoid unnecessary hits.

“It’s definitely something you think about,” Wentz said. “It’s just in the heat of the moment — how does your mind work? What instincts take over? I always come back to it and think, ‘That was probably dumb. I’ve got to learn.’ I hate to say it, but I’ve been saying that for 10 years.”

Wentz has completed 69% of his passes for 759 yards, five touchdowns, and two interceptions across three starts. McCarthy, meanwhile, has thrown for 301 yards with two touchdowns and three interceptions in his two appearances this season.

Vikings Balancing Patience and Urgency

The Vikings enter Week 7 at 3–2, trailing the NFC North-leading Detroit Lions but still well within playoff contention. O’Connell’s measured approach suggests Minnesota won’t rush McCarthy back, especially with his long-term development in mind.

For now, McCarthy’s return remains a week-to-week situation. His progress in practice will determine whether he can rejoin the lineup soon or continue to support from the sideline as Wentz leads the offense into another key matchup.