Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy has had a difficult first year as a starter.
The 2024 first-round pick has struggled at times this year, along with dealing with various injuries. Recently, McCarthy has been playing the best football of the season, but the injury bug once again hit McCarthy hard.
The Vikings quarterback had to once again be evaluated by medical staff during a game. McCarthy has already missed several games this year with different injuries, including a concussion.
Here's an updated on McCarthy's status in Week 16.
MORE WEEK 16 NFL:
J.J. McCarthy injury update
J.J. McCarthy suffered another injury, this time against the Giants. The Vikings quarterback left the game against New York with a hand injury he apparently suffered in the first half.
As medical staff looked at McCarthy's right hand on the sidelines, the quarterback clearly buckled in pain.
— amused by authenticity (@troyadavidson) December 21, 2025
After halftime, Max Brosmer came out to lead the Vikings, while McCarthy remained in the locker room. Minnesota ultimately ruled McCarthy out for the game, marking a third injury for McCarthy this season.
QB J.J. McCarthy (hand) has been ruled out.
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) December 21, 2025
This section will be updated
Vikings QB depth chart
| Rank | Player |
| 1. | J.J. McCarthy |
| 2. | Max Brosmer |
| 3. | John Wolford |
| 4. | Carson Wentz (IR) |
McCarthy is the starter in Minnesota, and while Carson Wentz was his backup, Wentz is out for the season with an injury, Undrafted free agent Max Brosmer is now second on the depth chart, as Brosmer made a start on the road against the Seattle Seahawks earlies this year.
While Brosmer will take over for McCarthy, John Wolford is an experienced option as well. Wolford has started seven career games and actually played in a playoff game for the Los Angeles Rams.