Overview
- The Minnesota Vikings announced on Monday, September 28, 2026 that they traded quarterback J.J. McCarthy to the New York Giants for a 2027 fifth‑round pick, with the deal pending McCarthy passing a physical.
- Multiple NFL insiders including Tom Pelissero, Adam Schefter, Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo corroborated the trade and reported that Minnesota will receive the unconditional 2027 fifth‑round selection.
- New York acquired McCarthy to upgrade quarterback depth after Dart’s knee injury and uneven relief play from Jameis Winston, and the team plans to use McCarthy initially as a young, controllable backup with potential to start if needed.
- The move clears a roster spot in Minnesota and, according to reporting by Tom Pelissero, provides the Vikings roughly $4.6 million in cash and cap savings while recouping draft value for a player who had slipped to third on the depth chart.
- McCarthy was the No. 10 pick in 2024 who missed his rookie season with a torn meniscus and struggled in 2025; the trade gives him a fresh start working for John Harbaugh and a chance to revive his value under a new coaching staff.