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4d ago

Giants Acquire J.J. McCarthy as Quarterback Insurance While Winston Remains Starter

A fifth‑round pick brought McCarthy to New York to replace depth lost when rookie Jaxson Dart suffered a season-ending knee injury.

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An image collage containing 3 images, Image 1 shows New York Giants quarterback Jameis Winston looks for an open receiver on the field, Image 2 shows New York Giants quarterbacks Jameis Winston and J.J. McCarthy participate in football practice, Image 3 shows New York Giants quarterback Jameis Winston smiling during a press conference
An image collage containing 2 images, Image 1 shows Giants quarterbacks Jameis Winston (19) and J.J. McCarthy (18) are seen during football practice in East Rutherford, N.J., Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026, Image 2 shows New York Giants quarterback J.J. McCarthy during football practice

Overview

  • The Giants traded a 2027 fifth-round pick to the Minnesota Vikings for J.J. McCarthy to add immediate depth after Dart’s severe left-knee injury.
  • Rookie Jaxson Dart suffered torn meniscus, MCL and PCL damage that ended his season and raised questions about the team’s short-term quarterback availability.
  • Head coach John Harbaugh confirmed Jameis Winston will start the Week 4 game while describing McCarthy’s arrival as an evaluation opportunity with no set timetable to take over.
  • McCarthy, a 2024 top-10 pick who missed his rookie year after knee surgery and posted uneven 2025 numbers, practiced in a Giants No. 18 jersey and brings strong coaching ties to Jim Harbaugh.
  • The move answers an urgent roster need but leaves open how the Giants will address red-zone inefficiency and whether McCarthy becomes a long-term starter or a tradeable asset.