J.J. McCarthy Dealing With Serious Injury

Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy is in concussion protocol, head coach Kevin O'Connell announced during his press conference on Monday (November 24) via NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.

"Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy is in concussion protocol, coach Kevin O'Connell said. Undrafted rookie Max Brosmer is the backup QB," Pelissero wrote on his X account.

It's unclear when McCarthy sustained a concussion during the Vikings' 23-6 loss to the Green Bay Packers on Sunday (November 23). The former first-round pick threw for 87 yards and two interceptions on 12 of 19 passing and was sacked five times, including four in the second half, during the Week 12 loss.

"Vikings HC Kevin O'Connell said QB J.J. McCarthy reported some symptoms in regard to his head on the travel home. Evaluated last night. Training staff and doctors decided to put him in the protocol. He'll go through process this week," the Athletic's Alec Lewis wrote on his X account.

The Vikings have lost three consecutive games and gone 1-3 in four games since McCarthy returned from injury. Brosmer spent his final collegiate season at the University of Minnesota after a decorated career at New Hampshire, which included being selected as a first-team FCS All-American and first-team All-CAA in 2023.