J.J. McCarthy Has 'Impressed' Giants in Practice After Vikings Trade, Matt Nagy Says

New York Giants offensive coordinator Matt Nagy likes what he has seen so far from recently acquired quarterback J.J. McCarthy.

Speaking to reporters Thursday, Nagy said of McCarthy, "He's done a great job with it. We're impressed, it's impressive. But at the same point in time, we also understand that it can be a lot, so it's a little bit of a balance."

Nagy noted that he didn't "know a whole lot" about McCarthy before his arrival, but he has gotten "good reviews" from those he has talked to, and he has admired the "grind" McCarthy has shown this week.

With starting quarterback Jaxson Dart ruled out for the remainder of the regular season due to a knee injury, the Giants sent a 2027 fifth-round draft pick to the Minnesota Vikings in exchange for McCarthy on Monday.

McCarthy was selected 10th overall by the Vikings in the 2024 NFL draft, but he never developed into the franchise quarterback the franchise hoped it was getting.

After missing his entire rookie season with a knee injury, McCarthy started 10 games last season. He posted a winning record at 6-4, but completed only 57.6 percent of his passes for 1,632 yards, 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions, while also rushing for 181 yards and four touchdowns.

McCarthy lost the QB1 competition with Kyler Murray during training camp and the preseason, and he also fell behind Carson Wentz on the depth chart, making him Minnesota's third quarterback.

The writing was on the wall regarding McCarthy's future with the Vikings at that point, and it seemed it was only a matter of time before the Vikes moved on.

With Dart's injury leaving veteran Jameis Winston as the only established quarterback on New York's roster, the Giants made the move to acquire McCarthy.

While McCarthy is starting off as the backup to Winston, a starting opportunity could present itself at some point during the 2026 season if Winston gets injured or struggles.

McCarthy is likely to suit up for the Giants for the first time on Sunday when New York hosts the Arizona Cardinals.