Vikings Drop Surprise QB News Before Patriots Game and Fans Did Not See It Coming

The Minnesota Vikings will be without rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy when they face the New England Patriots on Saturday. Head coach Kevin O’Connell confirmed that Sam Howell will get the start after McCarthy opened the preseason as the team’s starter in Week 1. The move gives Howell an extended look as the Vikings continue to evaluate their quarterback depth heading into the regular season.

On the injury front, wide receiver Jalen Nailor is dealing with a hand injury and will undergo further evaluation, according to O’Connell. The same goes for safety Josh Metellus, who is being evaluated for a shoulder injury. The Vikings have not released timetables for either player’s return, but both situations will be monitored closely as camp continues.

With McCarthy sitting out and key contributors nursing injuries, the Vikings’ preseason reps could provide valuable opportunities for depth players to step up.