Why isn’t JJ McCarthy playing for the Minnesota Vikings on Christmas Day? Injury report

A disappointing season for the Minnesota Vikings has suffered another setback with the news that quarterback J.J. McCarthy is out with a hairline fracture in his right hand.

The Vikings have already been eliminated from playoff contention but had the chance to give their fans something to cheer with a home game on Christmas Day. The loss of McCarthy complicates matters for Minnesota, with Max Brosmer expected to come in to replace him.

McCarthy did not play in the second half of last weekend’s 16-13 win against the New York Giants. Footage later showed that McCarthy had struck his right hand against the helmet of defensive lineman Roy Robertson-Harris, resulting in the newly-diagnosed hand injury.

Although there is nothing left to play for the Vikings in 2025, another injury to McCarthy will add to the frustration of a stop-start NFL career for the second-year quarterback.

McCarthy was drafted in 2024 but missed his entire rookie season due to a torn meniscus in his right knee. He was named the team’s starter for the 2025 season but has already missed six games, largely due to a high ankle sprain that cost him five games earlier in 2025.

Still only 22 years old, there is still plenty of time for McCarthy to deliver on his promise as a first-round draft pick quarterback. To do so, however, McCarthy will need to ensure that he can remain healthy.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.