Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy will not play in the Christmas Day game against the Detroit Lions due to a hand injury sustained during a recent match. McCarthy injured his right hand late in the first half of the game against the New York Giants on December 17, 2023. Following tests that revealed a small hairline fracture, Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell ruled him out on December 19.
While there is uncertainty regarding McCarthy’s availability for the Week 18 matchup against the Green Bay Packers, the team believes he will not need surgery. In the immediate term, undrafted rookie Max Brosmer will take over as the starting quarterback for the game on December 25.
The timing of this injury is particularly significant for the Vikings, as they had hoped to see McCarthy complete the season. The final two games against divisional rivals were expected to provide crucial insights into the team’s future quarterbacking decisions. Prior to his injury, McCarthy had shown promise, playing well in the two games leading up to the Giants matchup.
This setback highlights ongoing concerns regarding McCarthy’s health and performance. Since being drafted with the No. 10 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, he has faced multiple injuries. He missed his entire rookie season due to a torn meniscus suffered during the preseason. This season alone, he dealt with a high ankle sprain in Week 2 that sidelined him for five games, and a concussion protocol was triggered after a tough hit from a Packers defender in Week 12. Out of 32 regular-season games since joining the Vikings, McCarthy has participated in only nine.
In terms of performance, McCarthy has struggled this season, throwing for 1,450 yards with 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. His completion rate stands at 57.3 percent, the lowest among all qualified quarterbacks this year. Coach O’Connell noted the need for McCarthy to refine his lower-body mechanics to enhance his gameplay.
Despite their struggles, the Vikings have managed to win three consecutive games, improving their record to 7-8. Yet, the season has not met expectations, particularly given that no NFL team invested more in its 2025 roster than Minnesota. Both O’Connell and general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah received contract extensions in the offseason, but the team has not secured a playoff victory since they took the helm in 2022.
As the Vikings look ahead, the uncertainty surrounding McCarthy’s health and consistency may prompt them to consider acquiring a veteran quarterback for added security. Additionally, the organization faces numerous decisions in the offseason, including the potential renewal of defensive coordinator Brian Flores’ contract and roster adjustments, such as the future of defensive tackle Javon Hargrave.
The upcoming months promise to be pivotal for the Vikings as they assess their quarterback situation and overall roster strategy.