J.J. McCarthy's rookie season is over before it ever began in earnest.
The Minnesota Vikings quarterback will miss the entire 2024 season after undergoing a full meniscus repair on Wednesday, head coach Kevin O'Connell announced.
McCarthy, who was the No. 10 pick in April's NFL draft after leading Michigan to a national championship, was held out of practice Monday after playing in Saturday's preseason opener against the Las Vegas Raiders.
On Tuesday, O'Connell said the quarterback would need to undergo surgery , but it was not clear until McCarthy underwent surgery whether he would need a full repair or merely a trim, which could have allowed for a return this season.
O'Connell said despite the injury, he was more convinced than ever that the franchise has found its long-term solution behind center.
"As excited as I was to draft him, he's confirmed everything that I hoped to see ... our fanbase and everyone should just be excited about the fact that we've got our young franchise quarterback, I believe, in the building," O'Connell said.
Vikings ' QB options after J.J. McCarthy injury
Veteran Sam Darnold, who signed a one-year contract with Minnesota this offseason, now stands as the clear starter without a challenger.
Nick Mullens and Jaren Hall, who combined to start five last season after Kirk Cousins suffered a torn Achilles, both return as backups.
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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy out for entire rookie season after meniscus surgery
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