J.J. McCarthy reveals meniscus tear felt a day later

J.J. McCarthy, the Minnesota Vikings quarterback, experienced a meniscus tear during his first preseason game against the Las Vegas Raiders. Remarkably, he did not feel the injury until the following day when he noticed his knee buckling while descending stairs. This delayed reaction is attributed to the adrenaline rush during the game, which masked the pain. After reporting the injury to the team, further tests confirmed the diagnosis, which McCarthy described as a significant setback in his career. The severity of the injury required surgery, and McCarthy faced a lengthy recovery period, with estimates ranging from four to eight months. Upon waking from surgery and seeing a brace on his leg, he realized the situation was more serious than initially thought. He emphasized the importance of making smart decisions for his long-term career, especially as a rookie. While sidelined, McCarthy is focusing on mental preparation and understanding the routine of being a starting quarterback without the immediate pressure of game day. He believes this time will help him be ready for when he returns to the field, ensuring he is not overwhelmed by the experience of his first game. Despite his injury, McCarthy remains optimistic about the Vikings' prospects for the season. He expressed excitement about the team's potential and praised starting QB Sam Darnold, whom he believes has the talent and work ethic to excel. McCarthy is eager to see how the team performs and is confident in their abilities moving forward.