EAGAN, Minn. — While the Minnesota Vikings haven't formally announced that J.J. McCarthy will be their starting quarterback, their announcement on Thursday may be just as telling.

The Vikings named McCarthy as one of their eight team captains for the upcoming season, joining receiver Justin Jefferson, safeties Harrison Smith and Josh Metellus, running back Aaron Jones, Sr., long snapper Andrew Depaola, linebacker Jonathan Greenard and right tackle Brian O'Neill.

McCarthy missed all of the 2024 regular season after it was discovered that he had fully torn his meniscus in his right knee following the first preseason game. After having surgery, the first-round pick in 2024 was placed on season-ending injured reserve.

He's returned healthy this season and has practiced with the starters

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