How J.J. McCarthy 'had some real moments of growth' as Carson Wentz started for Vikings
Minnesota Vikings backup quarterback Carson Wentz won two of three starts as Week 1 QB1 J.J. McCarthy recovered from a high right ankle sprain that McCarthy picked up back on Sept. 14.
While speaking with reporters on Monday, Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell revealed that he feels McCarthy "had some real moments of growth" while watching Wentz help Minnesota improve to 3-2 on the season.
What is "the most critical part" of J.J. McCarthy's ongoing development?
"I think he's kind of taken a lot of that, just watching closely and my dialogue with him," O'Connell said about McCarthy, per Lindsey Young of the Vikings' website. "But I think the most critical part is going to be the techniques and fundamentals of playing the position the way he worked so hard to build up throughout the spring and the summer."
McCarthy recorded two touchdown passes and rushed for a score in the fourth quarter of Minnesota's 27-24 Week 1 win at the Chicago Bears. However, he tallied zero touchdowns and three interceptions over his other seven quarters of action.
"I think it's going to be more about the physical side of his lower-body mechanics and then just trying to put together a game plan for him throughout practices: 'How much can he do? What's the soreness level coming out of practices?' To be able to try to have the most consistent level of a ramp-up as we can," O'Connell added about how McCarthy will spend Minnesota's Week 6 bye.
Will J.J. McCarthy start for Vikings vs. Eagles in Week 7?
Wentz completed 69-of-100 passes for 759 yards with five touchdowns and two interceptions over Minnesota's past three games. This past Sunday, he guided the Vikings on a 10-play, 80-yard touchdown drive late in Minnesota's 21-17 win over the Cleveland Browns in London.
Later that night, Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio reported that McCarthy’s status for Minnesota's Week 7 game against the Philadelphia Eagles (4-1) is "up in the air." Philadelphia plays at the New York Giants (1-4) this coming Thursday night.
"I anticipate his workload building up," O'Connell said about McCarthy's return to the practice field during the bye. "We're going to really take advantage of that bonus Monday, not only with him, but with our whole team."
O'Connell hasn't publicly hinted that he could sit a healthy McCarthy to start Wentz against the Eagles. That said, it sounds like O'Connell won't rush McCarthy back into action until the Vikings determine that the 22-year-old is 100 percent healthy.
BREAKING: Olin Kreutz Nominated for Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026!
Chicago, IL – The Chicago Bears and NFL fans alike have reason to celebrate today as former Bears center Olin Kreutz has been officially nominated for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026. This recognition comes after a storied 13-season career, all spent with the Bears, where Kreutz established himself as one of the premier offensive linemen in the league.
Kreutz, who was drafted by the Bears in the third round of the 1998 NFL Draft, was a staple of Chicago’s offensive line for over a decade. Known for his leadership, toughness, and relentless drive, Kreutz earned six Pro Bowl selections and was named an All-Pro twice. His presence in the locker room and on the field helped anchor a Bears offensive line that saw success in both the running and passing games.
A Career of Excellence
During his time with the Bears, Kreutz played in 191 games, starting 180 of them at center, a position where consistency is key. He was instrumental in protecting quarterbacks like Mitchell Trubisky and Jay Cutler, while also clearing paths for running backs such as Matt Forte. One of the highlights of his career came in 2006 when he helped lead the Bears to Super Bowl XLI, although they ultimately fell short against the Indianapolis Colts.
Despite his accomplishments on the field, Kreutz’s leadership was perhaps his most defining characteristic. As a captain for many years, Kreutz set the tone for the Bears' offensive line with his fierce competitiveness and commitment to the game.
A Well-Deserved Nomination
This nomination for the Pro Football Hall of Fame is a well-deserved recognition for Kreutz’s dedication to the game. Throughout his career, he demonstrated exceptional skill, durability, and leadership, earning respect from teammates, coaches, and opponents alike. His nomination is a testament to his legacy as one of the best centers to ever play the game.
"I am honored and humbled by this nomination," Kreutz said in a statement. "It’s a reflection of all the hard work and support I received from my teammates and coaches throughout the years. Playing for the Bears and representing this city was the highlight of my career."
Looking Ahead
As Kreutz now waits for the official selection to the Hall of Fame, Bears fans will be eagerly watching. His nomination marks the start of what will be a highly anticipated journey to potentially receive football’s greatest individual honor. For a player who defined consistency and excellence on the field, the Pro Football Hall of Fame might be the next step in Kreutz’s legendary career.
