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Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy has been ruled out for Thursday's (December 25) game against the Detroit Lions due to a hairline fracture in his throwing hand, head coach Kevin O'Connell confirmed on Tuesday (December 23) via NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.
"Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy underwent further imaging that showed a hairline fracture in his throwing hand, coach Kevin O’Connell said. He’s out Thursday against the Lions," Pelissero wrote on his X account. "O’Connell said McCarthy will not need surgery for the hairline fracture, which he called 'very small.' But he’s not expected to go on a short week."
McCarthy suffered the injury with 17 seconds remaining in the second quarter of the Vikings' win against the New York Giants after being sacked by Giants defensive end Brian Burns on a play that resulted in a recovered fumble, with backup rookie Max Brosmer replacing him for the remainder of the game.
McCarthy finished Sunday's (December 21) game with 108 yards and an interception on 9 of 14 passing, while also recording 20 yards and a touchdown on two rushing attempts. The former first-round pick has already dealt with several injuries during his first two NFL seasons, which included a preseason meniscus tear that forced him to miss his entire rookie season, as well as a Grade 3 high ankle sprain and concussion, which forced him to miss a combined six games in 2025.