J.J. McCarthy's QB Coach Explains Why He Deleted Apology Post to Cris Carter, Vikings

Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy is dealing with some outside noise after comments from his personal coach, Greg Holcomb.

Vikings legend and Pro Football Hall of Famer Cris Carter was in attendance for this past Sunday's game against the Chicago Bears and posted a tweet that was critical of McCarthy's performance in the 19-17 loss. The post prompted a fiery response from Holcomb, who tweeted and subsequently deleted a message to Carter calling him a "F--kn clown."

Holcomb showed some remorse with an apology letter to Carter, but that was eventually deleted as well. He returned to social media on Wednesday to explain that he was asked to delete the apology post:

Holcomb initially apologized to Carter and the Vikings organization.

"While I will always stand up for someone I love like my own son, my choice of words was completely unacceptable," he wrote, per Anthony Bettin of CBS Minnesota. "My reaction was unprofessional, disrespectful, and far below the standards I hold for myself. I allowed my emotions to get the better of me, and in doing so, I disrespected not only Mr. Carter — a Hall of Famer and legend of the game — but also the Minnesota Vikings community."

McCarthy was 16-of-32 for 150 yards, a touchdown and two interceptions in the loss to the Bears. The 2024 No. 10 pick has had trouble finding his footing this year, throwing six touchdowns and eight interceptions in five games.

McCarthy and the Vikings (4-6) will be looking to snap a two-game skid on Sunday when they meet the NFC North rival Green Bay Packers (6-3-1).