Vikings' JJ McCarthy Returns in Preseason vs Texans

The Minnesota Vikings' first-round pick in 2024, JJ McCarthy, made his return to the field in the 2025 preseason opener against the Houston Texans after missing the entire 2024-25 season due to a torn meniscus. McCarthy showed flashes of his trademark elusiveness and speed, completing 4 of 7 passes for 30 yards and scrambling for a first down during his one series, though his performance was marked by some inaccuracy and a lack of big plays. Despite a short and somewhat uneven outing, McCarthy demonstrated enough potential to restore some fan confidence as the Vikings prepare to rely on him as their starting quarterback, especially after moving on from Sam Darnold. The game also highlighted McCarthy's leadership qualities and his impact beyond the field, including a kind gesture to a young fan. Meanwhile, reports from training camp suggest McCarthy has had an inconsistent performance, facing a tough Vikings defense in practice, leaving some uncertainty about his readiness for the regular season. Overall, McCarthy remains a promising but unproven figure for the Vikings, who had a strong 14-3 record last season and are counting on him to continue their success.