NFL: Minnesota Vikings at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Sep 27, 2026; Tampa, Florida, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) looks on prior to the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)
The New York Giants have landed a new quarterback. The Giants have traded a fifth round pick in the 2027 NFL draft to the Minnesota Vikings in in exchange for quarterback JJ McCarthy.
McCarthy was drafted by the Vikings with the No. 10 pick in the 2024 NFL draft. He started 10 games last season, but lost the starting job to Kyler Murray during the preseason. McCarthy had not played this season, even with Murray getting hurt in Week 1.
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Trade: Vikings are sending J.J. McCarthy to the New York Giants, sources me, @rapsheet and @mikegarafolo. pic.twitter.com/naQOQ6zhzC
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 28, 2026
McCarthy made the Vikings final roster while the team cut Max Bosmer. Carson Wentz won the backup job and replaced Murray when he was hurt. Through three games Wentz has more passing yards and touchdowns than Murray.
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McCarthy will get a chance to start over in New York. He missed his rookie year with an injury and struggled last year. The team had reportedly been looking to trade him since they settled their depth chart in August. With the number of starting quarterbacks who have been injured during the first month of the season, it’s no surprise that someone was willing to take a swing at the former Michigan quarterback.
Jameis Winston started the Giants’ win over the Titans in Week 3. In two games Winston and the Giants have only managed six field goals. Dart had three touchdown passes in the Giants’ season opening game. Winston now has two touchdown passes and three interceptions in his two seasons with the Giants.