Kevin O’Connell provides critical update on J.J. McCarthy’s injury and status for Christmas Day vs. Lions

Head coach Kevin O’Connell confirms that quarterback J.J. McCarthy has a hairline fracture in his hand and will likely miss Thursday’s game vs. the Detroit Lions.

Tyler Forness — NFL & College Football News Writer
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Dec 21, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) is taken to the locker room after a hit against the New York Giants during the first half at MetLife Stadium.
Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

The biggest question surrounding the Minnesota Vikings’ game against the Detroit Lions on Christmas Day has been answered. Head coach Kevin O’Connell told reporters on Tuesday afternoon that quarterback J.J. McCarthy has a hairline fracture in his throwing hand and will likely miss Thursday’s game.

“We did continue to get further imaging, beyond the initial X-ray, and beyond even the initial MRI. Got some further imaging, and there was a very small hairline fracture that was discovered in his hand,” said O’Connell. “We are not expecting to have him this week. I do not think this is anything that will require surgery. A similar kind of recovery is kind of similar to a bone bruise, but obviously, there is a small hairline fracture in there, and we’ll keep you guys posted about his availability next week. Set it after the game.”

With McCarthy likely ruled out, rookie undrafted free agent Max Brosmer will get the second start of his career, with the first coming in Seattle against the Seahawks three weeks ago.

J.J. McCarthy has hairline fracture in his throwing hand

This was a concern with McCarthy’s hand when he left the game against the New York Giants. Initial reports indicated he avoided a break in his hand after X-rays came back negative. When I wrote about the injury on Sunday afternoon after that was reported, I mentioned the possibility of an occult fracture, which often doesn’t appear on an initial X-ray:

“Yes, we did get the report from Goessling that McCarthy didn’t break a bone and the X-rays were negative. However, they don’t always catch everything.

“McCarthy could have what’s called an occult fracture, which is one that doesn’t show up on initial X-rays. It also causes pain, swelling, and tenderness after either an injury or repetitive stress.”

Notably, O’Connell said they set McCarthy’s hand after the game, contradicting Goessling’s reporting that there was no break. Based on O’Connell’s remarks, the good news is that surgery isn’t required to treat the injury. That is critical for the Vikings, as McCarthy needs a full offseason to improve his mechanics.

His status is up in the air for Week 18’s matchup against the Green Bay Packers, and we will keep you posted when that comes about.

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