Monday Night Football delivered quite an interesting debut for JJ McCarthy, the former 10th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Facing off against his draft classmate Caleb Williams, McCarthy made his first career start under the bright lights of primetime, and while the night began shakily, it ended with a statement win for the Minnesota Vikings.
The start was far from smooth. McCarthy, coming off a season-ending injury that forced him to miss all of 2024, struggled early, showing the understandable rust of a honorary rookie quarterback in his first NFL start.
Mistakes came quickly, and a costly interception returned for a touchdown extended the Bears’ lead in the third quarter. For a brief moment, it appeared as if the weight of the moment might overwhelm him.
Nahshon Wright picks off McCarthy and takes it to the house!
MINvsCHI on ESPN/ABC
Stream on @NFLPlus and ESPN+ pic.twitter.com/TAkwfZqzPY— NFL (@NFL) September 9, 2025
Yet McCarthy was able to bounce back. Gradually, he began to find his footing. His athleticism and instincts started to shine, and he led Minnesota on a fourth-quarter surge that completely shifted the game’s momentum.
Utilizing both his arm and his legs, McCarthy orchestrated three scoring drives, including a rushing touchdown to extend Minnesota’s lead deep in the fourth quarter. Each drive seemed to flow through him with increasing confidence.
JJ MCCARTHY LADIES AND GENTLEMEN
MINvsCHI on ESPN/ABC
Stream on @NFLPlus and ESPN+ pic.twitter.com/BfEqGXT2jg— NFL (@NFL) September 9, 2025
The turnaround was remarkable. What started as a tentative and error-filled beginning transformed into a display of leadership and poise. McCarthy’s ability to adjust, make quick reads, and lead his team under pressure allowed the Vikings to seize control late and secure a hard-fought road victory over the Bears, 27-24.
For the former Michigan star, the debut proved that setbacks and early mistakes are part of the growth process. His first NFL start revealed both the challenges of transitioning to the professional level and the potential for McCarthy to become a cornerstone for Minnesota’s offense.
With the season just beginning, fans and analysts alike have reason to be encouraged. JJ McCarthy showed that he can learn from mistakes, find his rhythm, and deliver in critical moments, setting the stage for a promising career in the NFL.
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