JJ McCarthy undergoes another knee procedure
Aug 2, 2024; Eagan, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) warms up during practice at Vikings training camp in Eagan, MN. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports
Minnesota Vikings quarterback JJ McCarthy underwent a significant medical procedure this week that will likely raise some eyebrows.
McCarthy underwent a second surgery on his right knee this week after experiencing renewed swelling, according to Kevin Seifert of ESPN. No changes to McCarthy’s recovery timetable are expected.
NEWS: Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy had a 2nd surgery on his right knee this week to address swelling that developed after an uptick in rehab activity, per source. As part of the procedure, he was given a biologic injection. No changes to recovery timetable.
— Kevin Seifert (@SeifertESPN) November 13, 2024
Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell suggested Wednesday that the procedure was not hugely significant, suggesting that the team has the luxury of time to allow McCarthy a full recovery and that the surgery is not seen as a setback.
Coach O'Connell gives an update on J.J. McCarthy pic.twitter.com/75auY0NCZ8
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) November 13, 2024
“As his rehab has picked up, we noticed a little swelling in there, and with the time that we do have, he’s been doing everything we asked of him,” O’Connell told reporters. “We just wanted to make sure there was no cause for concern, and all reports were very positive. He’s on the original timeline in good shape.”
Though McCarthy’s prognosis appears to be fine, a second knee surgery is obviously going to look concerning. The rookie suffered a torn meniscus during preseason and underwent surgery at that point that ruled him out for the entire season. The expectation remains that he will be ready to go for 2025.
The Vikings drafted McCarthy with the No. 10 overall pick this year. Clearly, the organization still views him as their long-term solution at the quarterback position.