After missing his entire rookie season due to a knee injury, J.J. McCarthy is back.
The Vikings QB enters the 2025 season as Minnesota’s unquestioned starter despite playing in just one preseason game last year. Since the Vikings let Sam Darnold go in free agency, Minnesota is committed to its first-round pick from 2024.
McCarthy returned to action on Saturday in the Vikings’ first preseason game against the Texans. He played in just one drive, a stark difference from last year’s preseason opener in which he attempted 18 passes over multiple drives.
Here’s how J.J. McCarthy fared in his first preseason action of the season.
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J.J. McCarthy preseason grade vs. Texans
Grade: B+
McCarthy had a productive first game back, completing four passes in one drive, three of which went to Jordan Addison for 33 yards, who was operating as the No. 1 receiver with Justin Jefferson inactive. He also showed off his legs, producing a scramble that resulted in a Minnesota first down.
However, after four straight completions, McCarthy sputtered to end the drive, as Minnesota managed just a field goal. The Vikings then pulled McCarthy in favor of backup quarterback Sam Howell.
J.J. McCarthy stats vs. Texans
- Completions/Attempts: 4/7
- Passing Yards: 30
- Touchdowns: 0
- Interceptions: 0
- Carries: 1
- Rushing Yards: 8
J.J, McCarthy highlights vs. Texans
McCarthy started the day strong, finding Jordan Addison on each of his first three attempts for a total of 33 yards.
Good throw from J.J. McCarthy under pressure.
Watch on @NFLNetworkStream on @NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/7nI0FqEbMR
— NFL (@NFL) August 9, 2025
3rd down find 3️⃣@jjmccarthy09
?: @FOX9 | @NFLNetwork pic.twitter.com/ZzSJa4Mfib
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) August 9, 2025
The Vikings quarterback also showed off his mobility, especially with a first-down run on his first drive.
4th and 4… McCarthy does it with his feet.
Watch on @NFLNetworkStream on @NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/6H4IscN74N
— NFL (@NFL) August 9, 2025
That was all for McCarthy, who was pulled after just one drive, in which the Vikings settled for a field goal.
