EAGAN, Minn. -- Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy cleared concussion protocol Thursday, his final step in returning to the starting lineup in time for Sunday's game against the Washington Commanders .

McCarthy suffered the concussion during a 23-6 loss in Week 12 to the Green Bay Packers and missed last week's 26-0 loss to the Seattle Seahawks . Speaking Thursday with local reporters, he couldn't specify a play that caused the injury.

"Every single game kind of feels like you get kicked in the face by a donkey," McCarthy said amid a season in which he has missed as many games (six) because of injuries as he has played.

The Vikings hope McCarthy can remain in the lineup for their final five regular season games as they look ahead to 2026 roster decisions. Coach Kevin

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