Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy should be ready to go for Sunday’s game against the Commanders.

McCarthy cleared concussion protocol on Thursday, paving the way for his return to the starting lineup.

The rookie quarterback suffered the concussion during Minnesota’s 23-6 Week 12 loss to the Packers and missed his team’s shutout loss against the Seahawks last week.

J.J. McCarthy looks to pass during the first half of the Vikings’ Week 12 road loss to the Packers on Nov. 23, 2025. AP

McCarthy, who was placed in the concussion protocol after reporting symptoms on the flight back from Green Bay, said he can’t remember exactly which play caused his injury.

“Every single game kind of feels like you get kicked in the face by a donkey,” McCarthy told reporters Thursday .

McCarthy’s con

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