Vikings’ J.J. McCarthy in Concussion Protocol Following Third Straight Loss
Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy has entered concussion protocol after reporting symptoms following a 23-6 loss to the Green Bay Packers, raising concerns about his availability for the upcoming game. This development could see undrafted rookie Max Brosmer stepping in as the starting quarterback for the first time, marking a challenging moment for the team’s young quarterback competition.
The second-year signal caller has an uncertain status heading into Week 13, as head coach Kevin O’Connell confirmed McCarthy would be in concussion protocol this week.
McCarthy reported symptoms of a concussion while on the team flight back to Minnesota following the loss to the Packers, per ESPN. If McCarthy is unable to go on Sunday, it will be undrafted rookie Max Brosmer taking over after Carson Wentz had season-ending shoulder injury earlier this season when he had to take over for McCarthy.
After missing his entire rookie campaign due to a torn meniscus, McCarthy’s 2025 season has been a rollercoaster. The 10th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, McCarthy has struggled when he’s been on the field, though he’s played just six games this season after dealing with a high-ankle sprain in Week 2. McCarthy missed five straight games before returning under center.
Minnesota is mired in a three-game losing streak, with McCarthy’s latest performance against the Packers seeing just 87 yards on 12-of-19 passing with two interceptions. He was also sacked five times in the loss.