(Video) JJ McCarthy’s Candid Reaction to Vikings Not Announcing QB1 for Eagles Game
Vikings second-year quarterback JJ McCarthy remains sidelined with a high ankle sprain, leaving his eventual return as the team’s best hope for stability under center.
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JJ McCarthy (Images via NBC Sports/X)
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The Minnesota Vikings, fresh off a bye week, are heading into a crucial game in Week 7, facing the Philadelphia Eagles. The Vikings are currently third in the NFC North with three wins and two losses so far in the season.
The Vikings are in fresh spirits as they hope to see the return of their starting quarterback, JJ McCarthy, in action. McCarthy, who spent his rookie year on the sidelines, became the first first-round quarterback to watch the entire season from the bench due to injury. The 2025 season was supposed to be the game-changer for him, but after a sensational start, he was once again struck by injury woes.
After missing three games, McCarthy may be back in purple and gold against the Eagles. But that’s not a sure thing. Even he’s completely unaware whether the team will activate him against the Philadelphia team. He had a quirky-cute response when asked about the same in a press availability.
I really don’t know. At the end of the day, I dont know what I’m having for dinner tonight.
JJ McCarthy said
Despite the strength of their Sunday opponents, the Vikings may lean into getting more time for the young 22-year-old. They would not want to aggravate his injuries before he could make a full recovery.
We’ve got to be smart here and understand there’s a lot of things that go into play, and at the end of the day, I’m just going to do what I’m told and try to get better as fast as possible.
McCarthy added
In McCarthy’s absence, the Vikings have started with Carson Wentz. Wentz, who’s on his sixth franchise, has recorded 2-1 in his three starts in 2025, and he’s most likely to appear in his fourth consecutive start. Although a few reports stated that Wentz was dealing with a shoulder injury, he should be starting, more so because McCarthy was a limited participant in training on Wednesday.
Vikings QB3 has become an important position amid injuries to starters
McCarthy’s high ankle sprain and Wentz’s left shoulder injury, the third-string quarterback, a position usually defined by clipboard duties, has taken on unusual importance in Minneapolis. And that “next man up” just happens to be undrafted rookie Max Brosmer.
Brosmer, a University of Minnesota product, is the only fully healthy quarterback on the roster. For now, he’s one snap away from running Kevin O’Connell’s offense in meaningful action. In a league where QB depth often decides playoff hopes, that’s no small matter.
The Vikings’ situation isn’t isolated. Across the NFL, the role of the QB3 has evolved dramatically in recent years. Coaches and GMs have made it a priority to develop and keep capable third-string options ready to step up when the starter and backup are injured or inconsistent.
Between injuries, 17-game schedules, and expanding offensive complexity, the modern quarterback room demands depth, adaptability, and developmental foresight. O’Connell himself alluded to that shift during training camp, emphasizing “constant readiness” among all quarterbacks in the system.
Few expected Brosmer to even make it this far. Undrafted and overlooked, he earned his place on the active roster through an efficient preseason. While other backups floundered, Brosmer showcased quick processing, composure in the pocket, and an understanding of O’Connell’s offense that belied his inexperience.
He impressed coaches with his layered throws, calm demeanor, and knack for leading drives in August action, enough to beat out veterans like Desmond Ridder and secure the QB3 spot.
Now, as the only completely healthy quarterback in Minneapolis, Brosmer’s preparation could soon be tested under the bright lights. Should Wentz aggravate his injury or McCarthy remain limited, the Vikings could be one play away from handing Brosmer the huddle against the defending NFC champions, the Philadelphia Eagles.
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