vikings Face Offensive Challenges as McCarthy, Jones Likely Out for Week 3
The Minnesota Vikings’ offense is bracing for potential setbacks ahead of their Week 3 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals, as both quarterback J.J. McCarthy and running back Aaron jones are unlikely to play, according to Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell.
O’Connell informed reporters Monday that McCarthy is suffering from an ankle sprain, while Jones sustained a hamstring injury. Both injuries occurred during Sunday nightS 22-6 loss to the Atlanta Falcons. While the timing of McCarthy’s injury remains unclear – he completed the game – Jones exited in the third quarter and was officially ruled out in the fourth.
McCarthy, 22, demonstrated promise in his debut Week 1 against the Chicago Bears, orchestrating a fourth-quarter comeback with 143 passing yards and two touchdowns. However, he struggled against the Falcons’ defense, recording 158 yards, two interceptions, and six sacks.
Jones has been limited to 46 rushing yards in the first two games of the season, a stark contrast to his 1,138 rushing yards in the 2024 campaign. He has added 44 receiving yards.
Adding to the Vikings’ concerns,center Ryan Kelly and left tackle Justin Skule are also in the concussion protocol following Sunday’s game and their availability for Week 3 is uncertain.The Vikings currently hold a 1-1 record.
