Vikings hold rookie QB J.J. McCarthy (knee) out of practice

Minnesota Vikings rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy was held out of Monday's practice after reporting right knee soreness to medical staff.

McCarthy will undergo additional evaluation and testing on the knee. He made his preseason debut in Minnesota's 24-23 win over the Las Vegas Raiders on Saturday, completing 11 of 17 passes for 188 yards, two touchdowns and one interception.

Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell planned on McCarthy taking 30 snaps, and once he did, he was removed from the game in the third quarter.

There was no mention of an injury during or after the victory.

O'Connell said Monday that the decision to keep McCarthy on the sidelines for practice was made out of precaution.

"We want to make sure we're smart before he participates, making sure we have a good understanding of where he's at," O'Connell said.

McCarthy was supposed to get more snaps with the first-team offense this week, but O'Connell said he was unsure whether the 21-year-old would travel to Cleveland for joint practices with the Browns ahead of their preseason game on Saturday.

Veteran Sam Darnold has been atop the Vikings' depth chart at quarterback. McCarthy was the 10th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft after winning a national championship with Michigan in January.

--Field Level Media