J.J. McCarthy returned to practice on Monday, a month after sustaining what he described to reporters as an “annoying” high ankle sprain. Though he was a limited participant throughout the week and listed as questionable for Week 7, his return highlights the Vikings’ quarterback situation.
McCarthy’s season began with an NFC Offensive Player of the Week award after the opener, but his development was quickly disrupted. He missed practice time for the birth of his son and was then sidelined by the ankle injury. Head coach Kevin O’Connell noted this past week, “He had practiced one time since we left Chicago.” This lack of reps is significant for a coach who has previously stated, “I believe organizations fail young quarterbacks before young quarterbacks fail organizations.”
The team’s patient approach is informed by McCarthy’s history, as he missed his entire rookie season with a preseason knee injury. To aid his recovery and progress, McCarthy spent three days during the bye week in one-on-one sessions with O’Connell and QB coach Josh McCown.
Meanwhile, backup Carson Wentz has performed effectively in relief. Signed to a one-year deal in August after the team traded Sam Howell to the Eagles, Wentz has thrown for 759 yards with five touchdowns and two interceptions in his appearances. He has also surpassed a 100 passer rating in two of his three starts.
If Wentz continues to play well, coaches could be tempted to stick with the “hot hand.” For now, Minnesota appears focused on McCarthy’s long-term development over rushing him back. While McCarthy continues to learn and practice, the Vikings will start Wentz on Sunday and focus on winning the game.
Source link
