J.J. McCarthy is back.

In his first game action since the 2024 preseason opener, the Vikings quarterback took 12 snaps against the Texans.

The drive ended with a field goal, giving the Vikings a 3-0 lead.

McCarthy completed four of seven passes for 30 yards, with four targets (three catches) going to receiver Jordan Addison.

The second-year signal-caller also ran for eight yards on fourth and four from Houston’s 43.

McCarthy missed all of 2024 with a knee injury that happened in the preseason opener against the Raiders — even if it wasn’t obvious when it occurred.

“I love the fact that we were able to, you know, execute [and] hit an explosive [play] in the [play-action passing] game,” coach Kevin O’Connell told reporters after the game. “I love the fact that we converted some third d

See Full Page