The Minnesota Vikings entered Thursday night’s matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers with Carson Wentz under center — an expected move given the short turnaround. Rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy suited up once again as the emergency third quarterback, but signs continue to suggest he’s on track to return in Week 9 when the Vikings face the Detroit Lions.
Despite this timeline, many still believe McCarthy’s lingering ankle issue might be a convenient cover for a subtle benching. Head coach Kevin O’Connell has repeatedly emphasized what he wants to see from his young signal-caller, reminding everyone that recovering from a high ankle sprain rarely follows a perfect schedule.
By Week 9, McCarthy will be roughly seven weeks removed from his initial injury — just outside the typical 4–6 week recovery window most players face for that type of sprain, provided there are no complications.
Pelissero’s “Careful” Choice of Words Draws Attention
During Thursday’s Power Trip Morning Show on KFXN-FM, NFL Network reporter Tom Pelissero was asked about Minnesota’s quarterback situation. Co-host Cory Cove referenced O’Connell’s comment that McCarthy might have started if the Chargers game had been on a Sunday instead of a Thursday. Cove then asked if McCarthy was expected to be under center against Detroit.
Pelissero responded cautiously:
“Maybe ‘expect’ is too strong a word, but all signs are pointing toward J.J. McCarthy being available for that Lions game.”
He elaborated, explaining that the team is balancing multiple factors. Pelissero dismissed the “soft benching” talk, stressing that the worst mistake a team can make with a young quarterback is forcing him to play before he’s fully ready — whether physically or mentally.
“Right now, McCarthy’s not there yet,” Pelissero said. “That’s not an insult to his preparation; it’s just the truth. He hasn’t gone through a full week of practice since before Week 1. The ankle is improving, but they want him moving without limitation.”
With such a short turnaround this week, there was never a real chance for McCarthy to practice fully. The plan, according to Pelissero, is to give him an uninterrupted week of preparation before making a decision.
Reading Between the Lines
Pelissero’s phrasing — saying McCarthy should be “available” rather than confirming he will start — has fueled further speculation among fans and analysts. Yet, he was quick to credit O’Connell for exercising patience and not rushing the rookie back amid growing pressure and media noise.
If all goes according to plan, McCarthy could reclaim the starting job in Week 9 against Detroit. And when he does, it will be his opportunity to silence the ongoing debate about his injury, his readiness, and his role in the Vikings’ future.
