Most Minnesota Vikings fans were expecting the news, but it is official: J.J. McCarthy is out.
ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter reported that McCarthy is still in concussion protocol and has been ruled out of the Vikings' Week 13 game against the Seattle Seahawks. McCarthy suffered the concussion in the Week 12 loss to the Green Bay Packers, but was never pulled from the game.
Minnesota will be rolling with undrafted rookie Max Brosmer to make his first career start in the NFL. Brosmer has appeared in three games this season, completing five of eight passes for 42 yards.
The Minnesota Vikings are handing the keys to Max Brosmer at quarterback
McCarthy has had some significant struggles in his first six starts. He has gone 2-4 in the span and has thrown six touchdowns to eight interceptions in those starts.
The Vikings are throwing Brosmer out there as the new starter, with little experience. Despite that, Brosmer has been popular among the coaching staff, receiving praise from multiple coaches, including his head coach, Kevin O'Connell.
Brosmer will have plenty of weapons to work with, thanks to Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison to throw it to. He also has T.J. Hockenson and Jalen Nailor, so plenty of targets in the passing game.
Watch for the Vikings, though, to lean more on the running game with Jordan Mason and Aaron Jones Sr. Mason and Jones have not had the type of season they were hoping for, but should each at least get 10 carries and split the rock.
All eyes are on the offensive line, which struggled last week in the Packers game as McCarthy took a beating. O'Connell will be looking for his veteran group to make sure that Brosmer gets as much time as possible. The Vikings should call more quick passes and let Jefferson and Addison collect more yards after the catch.
Minnesota will have a big challenge on its hands as it faces its old quarterback, Sam Darnold, and the Seahawks. The Vikings need a win to stay in the playoff hunt.