Vikings’ JJ McCarthy Injury Update Emerges on Sunday

As Minnesota prepares for a divisional clash against the Detroit Lions in Week 9, all eyes are now on McCarthy’s health and when he might return.

According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Vikings expect McCarthy to suit up when the team travels to Detroit to face one of the top teams in the NFL.

“The Minnesota Vikings are expecting to get J.J. McCarthy back for their next game, that is against the Lions in Week 9,” Rapoport said on Sunday.

He added that the team wanted to ensure McCarthy was “fully healthy and ready to go” and had enough practice time to be game-ready before taking the field again.

McCarthy, who suffered the injury in a loss to the Atlanta Falcons, has since focused on recovery with a cautious approach from the medical staff. Drafted 10th overall in 2024, McCarthy entered the league with significant hype after a standout career with the Michigan Wolverines. His early performances this season showed flashes of composure and accuracy, completing 65 percent of his passes in the season opener against the Chicago Bears.

Since McCarthy’s injury, the Vikings have had to rely heavily on Wentz. While he has managed to steady the ship with 1,216 yards, six touchdowns in five games, he has looked shaky at times with five interceptions already this season.

Getting McCarthy back could provide much-needed stability for a team struggling to keep pace with the Lions and Green Bay Packers in the NFC North. His ability to extend plays and manage the offense efficiently gives Minnesota a different offensive flow. The Vikings will hope the young quarterback can stay healthy and spark a turnaround when they visit the Lions in Detroit next Sunday.