The New York Giants have acquired quarterback J.J. McCarthy from the Minnesota Vikings for a fifth-round pick, adding another option after Jaxson Dart underwent season-ending knee surgery.
The Giants entered the quarterback market after Dart’s injury created uncertainty behind center.
Dart underwent surgery Friday to repair damage to his meniscus and MCL, leaving Winston as New York’s immediate starter and Jake Haener as the other quarterback on the roster.
NFL Network reported that New York had been considering several veteran and former starting quarterbacks, including Jimmy Garoppolo, Brandon Allen, Justin Fields, Mac Jones, McCarthy and Gardner Minshew.
The Giants ultimately made a move for McCarthy, the No. 10 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft. The 23 year old quarterback leaves Minnesota after only 10 starts, with the trade ending his tenure before he could establish himself as the Vikings’ long-term starter.
McCarthy’s Minnesota Run
McCarthy missed his entire rookie season after tearing his right meniscus. He became Minnesota’s starter in 2025 but completed 57.6% of his passes while recording 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions across 10 starts.
His second season was also affected by injuries, including an ankle sprain, concussion and a hairline fracture in his right hand. Minnesota signed Kyler Murray in March and later selected Carson Wentz as Murray’s backup.
Winston’s first appearance after replacing Dart produced 111 passing yards and an interception on 11-of-27 passing in a 28-6 loss to the Los Angeles Rams.
Giants coach John Harbaugh had previously said that “all options are open” at quarterback. McCarthy’s arrival gives New York another former first-round quarterback alongside Winston as the team manages Dart’s absence.
Source attribution: NFL Network, ESPN.
