There’s nothing that can compare to the speed and physicality of an actual NFL game.
However, given that he cannot be on the field during his rookie season, J.J. McCarthy will have to settle for the second-best thing.
Even if he’s not going to be able to play, the Minnesota Vikings want their prized rookie to take as many mental reps as possible.
According to a report by Dianna Russini of The Athletic, McCarthy will be there with the team every single day.
He’ll be in the quarterback room getting the game plan ahead of every contest, as they want him to prepare as if he were the starter.
J.J. McCarthy’s season-ending injury ended his rookie season before it ever really began in earnest.
So now what?@DMRussini details the Vikings’ comprehensive plan to keep developing their first-round pick — including sessions with Kevin O’Connell ⤵️https://t.co/Y70Mokf5Md pic.twitter.com/kS27PsB1Cb
— The Athletic NFL (@TheAthleticNFL) September 7, 2024
There are no days off if you play in the NFL, even if you can’t actually play.
It’s not easy to adapt to the perks and demands that come with being an NFL player.
Obviously, there’s no substitute for actual game-day reps, but this way, McCarthy at least will get a chance to get a full grasp of the playbook, the terminology, concepts and routine that come with being the Vikings’ quarterback.
It was a shame to see that he wouldn’t be able to suit up and play in his rookie season, as some thought he could’ve had the most success right out of the gate among all of the quarterbacks in his class.
Kevin O’Connell’s quarterback-friendly system looked tailor-made for his skills.
Now, the team will have to wait for at least another season before getting a glimpse of their quarterback of the future.
