J.J. McCarthy injury update should give Vikings reason for optimism

Minnesota Vikings rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy recently underwent a second knee surgery, but it sounds like he's back on track. 

During a Thursday interview on "The Herd with Colin Cowherd," Fox Sports NFL insider Jordan Schultz said McCarthy is "doing great" and "ahead of schedule" in his recovery process.

Meanwhile, Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell recently indicated the second surgery isn't a red flag. 

"As his rehab has picked up, we noticed a little bit of swelling [in his knee] and just with the time that we do have ... we just wanted to make sure there was no cause for concern," O'Connell said, via ESPN's Kevin Seifert. "All reports were very positive, and he's on the original timetable and in good shape." 

These seem like positive signals for McCarthy, who may have to prove he's the franchise's future in 2025.

QB Sam Darnold has assumed Minnesota's starting role this season and had a career year. Through his first 12 games, he ranks 10th in the NFL in passing yards (2,952) and fourth in TD passes (23). 

Per The 33rd Team, Darnold and Baltimore Ravens QB Lamar Jackson are the only QBs with a passer rating of 100-plus in 10 games this season.  

While Darnold's breakout is one reason the Vikings (10-2) are in the thick of the playoff hunt, it's also why he could leave the franchise in 2025. 

This upcoming offseason, Darnold is an unrestricted free agent. Spotrac estimates his market value is a four-year deal worth $32.4M annually. 

Although he's thrived in Minnesota, bank on Darnold signing for more money elsewhere.  

The Vikings recently gave former Giants starting QB Daniel Jones — who went 24-44-1 in six seasons with New York — a one-year deal. Minnesota could re-sign him as a bridge QB.

Regardless, expect the Vikings to turn to McCarthy quickly if he's healthy. Minnesota didn't draft him with the 10th overall pick to hold a clipboard and high-five teammates on the sidelines.