ESPN.com · Sep 8, 2025
Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy joining Rodgers, Darnold with 'MNF' start
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It's J.J. McCarthy time for the Minnesota Vikings.
McCarthy will make his first NFL career start for the Vikings on "Monday Night Football" against the host Chicago Bears (8:15 p.m. ET on ABC). After being drafted 10th by Minnesota in 2024, McCarthy underwent surgery in August of that year to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee and missed the entire season.
The Vikings quarterback made his return last month and admitted there was a "little teardrop" during the national anthem prior to his first preseason game. The moment concluded a 364-day journey since his last game.
