After more than a month on the sideline, Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy is officially on track to return to action. The rookie signal-caller went through his first full practice since mid-September on Wednesday, clearing the way for his comeback start against the Detroit Lions this Sunday at Ford Field.
“I finally feel like myself again,” McCarthy said after practice, reflecting on his recovery from the high ankle sprain he suffered during the Week 2 loss to the Falcons on September 14. “It’s kind of a reset — getting back into rhythm, getting back into the swing of things.”
McCarthy’s full participation this week marks a milestone for the 22-year-old, who missed five games while recovering. Head coach Kevin O’Connell noted that McCarthy hadn’t even completed a full traditional week of practice before his injury — largely due to the birth of his son right before the season kicked off.
Just eight days ago, the Vikings tested McCarthy’s readiness before their matchup against the Chargers but decided he wasn’t quite there yet. “I felt close,” McCarthy said. “But it still felt like my foot was heavy — like it was in concrete. You can’t go out there if you can’t move or protect yourself the way you need to.”
With Carson Wentz sidelined for the rest of the season following shoulder surgery, McCarthy’s return couldn’t come at a more crucial time. Max Brosmer will remain the backup quarterback, and the team also added John Wolford to the practice squad for depth.
The Vikings have slipped below .500 and face their first divisional game since Week 1 — the same game where McCarthy led a late comeback to beat the Bears. Through his two starts this year, McCarthy has completed 24 of 41 passes for 301 yards, with two touchdowns and three interceptions, while taking six sacks against Atlanta.
In film sessions with O’Connell, the rookie said he’s focused on improving the little things — namely his footwork, progressions, and rhythm. O’Connell agreed, emphasizing that those details will define McCarthy’s success moving forward.
“When J.J. plays with balance, control, and confidence, you can see the potential he has,” O’Connell said. “He’s putting in the work to make that consistency show up on game day.”
Andrew Van Ginkel Feels “Really Good” in First Full Practice Since Week 3
Linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel also took a major step forward on Wednesday, returning to full participation for the first time since September 19. The veteran has battled through a concussion and neck injury that first flared up in training camp and worsened in the opener against Chicago.
“I feel really good about where I’m at,” Van Ginkel said. “The plan is to be ready to go this weekend.”
Despite limited playing time earlier in the season, Van Ginkel managed seven tackles, two sacks, and a quarterback hurry across just 69 snaps before being sidelined.
Josh Oliver Expected to Miss Lions Game
Tight end Josh Oliver is unlikely to suit up against Detroit after suffering a right foot sprain in last week’s loss to the Chargers. “The good news is we avoided a long-term situation,” O’Connell said, adding that Oliver will be re-evaluated next week.
Fullback C.J. Ham (hand) and cornerback Jeff Okudah (concussion) did not practice Wednesday. Meanwhile, Jonathan Greenard (ankle), Brian O’Neill (knee), and Isaiah Rodgers (shoulder) were limited participants, with Rodgers wearing a red non-contact jersey.
On a positive note, Christian Darrisaw (knee), Van Ginkel, and McCarthy were all full participants — a sign that the Vikings are getting key starters healthy just in time for a crucial divisional test in Detroit.
