Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy went from the top of the college football world to injured reserve in a matter of months, but Monday marked the start of a new era.
The Vikings drafted the 2023 Big Ten Quarterback of the Year No. 10 overall in 2024 and named him Sam Darnold's backup to open training camp. However, he tore the meniscus in his right knee after throwing two touchdowns in the preseason opener.
Now, McCarthy is back on the field after Darnold left for the Seattle Seahawks in free agency. The 2023 College Football Playoff national champion made his debut against the Chicago Bears on Monday night, and NFL fans on social media have thoughts so far.
"JJ McCarthy was never an elite prospect, he was always the college version of Jalen hurts who needed a super team to be 'good,'" one said.
"JJ McCarthy in the deep end of the pool and he ain’t swimming so far," another said.
"Wow, JJ McCarthy, who was already unimpressive in college, looks like [expletive] in the NFL. I’m so shocked," another said.
"JJ McCarthy, it’s getting real dark for you boy," another said.
"JJ McCarthy gonna make Justin Jefferson request a trade," another said.
JJ McCarthy was never an elite prospect, he was always the college version of Jalen hurts who needed a super team to be “good” pic.twitter.com/f6J7A8dVfq
— Gio (@jsmove7) September 9, 2025
J.J. McCarthy had quiet first half
Although McCarthy was behind center during the Wolverines' 2023 title run, he was also aided by a rushing attack that averaged 238.9 yards per game and a defense that allowed just 10.4 points a contest. That's partially why the aforementioned fans argued that he's "unimpressive," and he has yet to do anything on Monday to disprove that.
McCarthy completed five of eight passes for 48 yards in the first half, with just one four-yard completion to superstar wideout Justin Jefferson. Minnesota was also zero-for-five on third down. He followed that up with a pick-six and a three-and-out in the third quarter.
To make matters worse, the Bears have several defenders out, including nickelback Kyler Gordon, cornerback Jaylon Johnson, and linebacker T.J. Edwards. Monday is only McCarthy's first game, but he must do more to prove that he can succeed without being carried by teammates.
Update: McCarthy found his mojo in the fourth quarter, tossing two touchdowns and running for another to complete a 27-24 win. Minnesota was down 17-6 at the start of the period, but its fortunes changed after Chicago missed a 50-yard field goal.
McCarthy finished 13-of-20 with 143 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception to go with 25 rushing yards on two carries with a score. While it took time for him to get going, his late-game heroics showed why the Vikings gave him the keys to the franchise.