Minnesota Vikings star quarterback J.J. McCarthy skipped practice on Thursday, but for good reason.
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It was announced by the Vikings head coach that McCarthy was excused due to being at the hospital with his fiancée to welcome the arrival of his baby boy.
J.J. McCarthy is not at practice today. He’s at a local hospital with his fiancée as they await positive news in welcoming their new baby boy. Kevin O’Connell was pumped to share the news.
— Alec Lewis (@alec_lewis) September 11, 2025
The Athletic’s Alec Lewis shared the news while O’Connell was speaking to reporters about Week 2, and why McCarthy was not there for practice.
The young signal caller is having himself a week. On the heels of being named NFC Player of the Week, McCarthy is welcoming his first child.
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McCarthy and the Vikings have been one of the hottest stories in the NFL, as the team pulled off a major comeback against the Chicago Bears on Monday night. Though the score was 17-6 while heading into the fourth quarter, everything looked quite destitute for Minnesota.
Instead of buckling to the pressure, McCarthy and company marched down the field and put together three impressive scoring drives. Two touchdown passes and a rushing touchdown from the young passer put the score at 27-24, securing the victory.
Based on McCarthy’s unyielding ability to keep his head down and continue working, he was announced as the NFC Player of the Week. He finished the day with 143 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception.
Granted, McCarthy’s stats do not jump off the page, and there were plenty who believed his being named NFC Player of the Week was a bit ridiculous, but it was his ability to secure such a comeback in the fourth quarter that led to the honor.
McCarthy became the only player in history to secure three touchdowns in their NFL debut in the fourth quarter.
It is believed that McCarthy will return to the team soon, as the Vikings prepare to go 2-0, should they defeat the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday.
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