(Berea) Minnesota Vikings rookie quarterback JJ McCarthy’s season is over, the team announced Wednesday, after he underwent surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee.
McCarthy was injured in his first preseason game Saturday, when he completed 11 of 17 passes for 188 yards, two touchdowns and an interception against the Las Vegas Raiders.
The former University of Michigan star had a very good training camp and was expected to act as the No. 2 quarterback behind Sam Darnold.
Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell confirmed McCarthy’s absence shortly after the team arrived in Berea ahead of a two-day joint practice with the Cleveland Browns.
McCarthy admitted to feeling lingering pain when the players met Monday, and the Vikings decided to submit the 10e latest NFL draft pick to a battery of additional tests.
The rehabilitation period for a complete meniscus tear is usually much longer than for a partial tear, and the severity of the injury is often known at the time of surgery.
The Vikings initially believed McCarthy would be out for about a month. Unfortunately for them, it will be much longer.
Nick Mullens will therefore be the Vikings’ No. 2 quarterback this season.