It looks like the New England Patriots won't be facing the Minnesota Vikings' starting quarterback after all for this weekend's preseason contest.
According to Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell, the Vikings will be sitting quarterback J.J. McCarthy during Saturday's preseason matchup vs. the Patriots, and will instead be starting backup Sam Howell in his place.
Head Coach Kevin O'Connell announces J.J. McCarthy will not play Saturday and Sam Howell will get the start.
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) August 14, 2025
O'Connell had been strongly hinting at the possibility that McCarthy would end up staying out of the action during the lead-up in camp this week, with his announcement now making it official after Thursday's joint practice.