ALLEN PARK -- J.J. McCarthy is expected to make his return from a five-game absence for the Minnesota Vikings in Detroit this weekend.
The NFL Network reports McCarthy is expected to return against the Lions. The Athletic added that McCarthy has been pushed through workouts in recent weeks, and the Vikings wanted to give the former first-round pick ample time to recover from his ankle injury.
McCarthy started the first two games of the season for the Vikings. He led an impressive comeback victory against the Chicago Bears in the opener. But the former Michigan star quarterback struggled the next week in a loss, and has been out with a high-ankle sprain for the last month-plus.
The Vikings (3-4) have started veteran quarterback Carson Wentz since McCarthy’s injury. Wentz has been inconsistent, and finds himself banged up with a a injury to his non-throwing shoulder.
Minnesota has gone 2-3 with Wentz as its starter. The 32-year-old quarterback has completed 65.1% of his passes with six touchdowns and five interceptions. Wentz started strong, but after a 144-yard yard performance in the 37-19 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers last week, it’s time for McCarthy to try and right the ship.
It’s a key game for both teams. The Lions are looking to notch another division win fresh off their bye week. With a victory over the Vikings, they could put Minnesota two games below .500 and put the pressure on the Packers (5-1-1) to keep winning.
McCarthy missed all of his rookie season due to a knee injury, and now his sophomore campaign has been interrupted due to the ankle issue. Now, the 22-year-old gets to return against a feisty, red-hot Lions defense.
Aidan Hutchinson is playing like an elite pass rusher. Alim McNeill just returned for his first game in 10 months last week, and looked back on the defensive line. The Lions are expected to work linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez into practice this week. They also get safety Brian Branch back from suspension, while Kerby Joseph and cornerback Terrion Arnold should have a good shot at returning against the Vikings.
Detroit Lions beat writer, Advance Local fellow
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