Overview
- J.J. McCarthy cleared concussion protocol and will start against Washington after practicing fully, returning with a 2–4 record and a 54.1% completion rate with six touchdowns and 10 interceptions.
- Kevin O’Connell said the plan centers on decision-making rather than mechanics, while Aaron Jones acknowledged the offense was “dumbed down” and T.J. Hockenson said players do not like simplifying the playbook.
- Minnesota’s offense is in a prolonged slump that includes a 26-0 loss in Seattle with four interceptions by Max Brosmer and a recent stretch averaging 10.5 points per game.
- Justin Jefferson described high frustration after skipping postgame media in Seattle and called this a difficult year, and his production has dipped to 62 catches for 799 yards and two touchdowns through 12 games.
- Trade chatter around Jefferson resurfaced, with ESPN’s Adam Schefter calling a move hard to imagine, and any deal could not occur before the new league year begins in March.