The Minnesota Vikings are expecting starting quarterback J.J. McCarthy to return to action Sunday vs. Washington after a one-week absence, coach Kevin O’Connell told reporters Monday.

McCarthy missed Sunday’s 26-0 loss at Seattle after sustaining a concussion in the prior game against Green Bay. It was his second injury absence of the season, previously missing five games due to a high ankle sprain.

O’Connell said that McCarthy is symptom free and is expected to clear concussion protocol Wednesday when he completes a full practice.

“Expecting (him to return), barring any unforeseen changes to where he’s at today,” O’Connell said. “Hopefully having that Wednesday will allow him to have a normal, full week and likely be able to go in as our starter on Sunday.”

McCarthy, the 10th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, has struggled this season after missing his entire rookie campaign due to a torn meniscus. In six games, he has completed 54.1% of his passes with six touchdown passes to 10 interceptions and a 2-4 record.

His passer rating of 57.9 ranks him 46 out of 46 eligible quarterbacks this season.

However, things did not get any better in Sunday’s loss with undrafted rookie Max Brosmer leading the offense. Brosmer completed 19 of 30 passes for 126 yards, no scores and four picks.

Minnesota (4-8) has lost four straight games entering Sunday’s home game against the Commanders (3-9), who have lost seven straight.

–Field Level Media