Overview
- Head coach Kevin O’Connell said imaging found a “very, very small” fracture in McCarthy’s right throwing hand, sidelining him for Thursday’s game against the Lions.
- Undrafted rookie Max Brosmer will make his second NFL start after replacing McCarthy in the Week 16 win over the Giants.
- The Vikings claimed veteran Brett Rypien off waivers to bolster depth behind Brosmer, with John Wolford also in the quarterback room.
- The team is not placing McCarthy on injured reserve as they monitor his grip strength for a possible return in the season finale at Green Bay.
- This marks McCarthy’s seventh missed game of 2025 following earlier absences for a high ankle sprain and a concussion, continuing a stop‑start start to his career after missing all of 2024.