By Moses Joshua 
Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy nears return — but health questions linger ahead of divisional showdown
Detroit Prepares for a Critical NFC North Clash
The Detroit Lions are gearing up for one of their most important games of the season — a divisional showdown against the Minnesota Vikings — but their upcoming opponent may be dealing with a serious question mark under center. While Detroit enjoys its well-earned bye week, the Vikings are anxiously monitoring the health of their young quarterback, J.J. McCarthy, whose return could shape the stakes of this NFC North battle.
As The Athletic’s Alec Lewis reported, McCarthy is expected to reclaim his starting spot next week after missing five games with a high ankle sprain. Minnesota head coach Kevin O’Connell told reporters Friday that the second-year quarterback has been progressing well and could be cleared in time for the matchup against Detroit.
“He got some work today and he will hopefully get some work throughout the early part of the week, which will lead him into a full week of preparation,” O’Connell said.
While the Vikings are hopeful, the situation remains fluid — and McCarthy’s availability could have a major impact on both teams’ playoff trajectories.
Vikings Place Faith in McCarthy Despite Setbacks
O’Connell emphasized that McCarthy’s focus during the bye week would be on regaining timing and rhythm with his receivers, particularly T.J. Hockenson, Aaron Jones, and rookie standout Zavier Scott.
“For J.J., it’s going to be about the commitment that he’s made throughout his rehab of getting back to those concrete fundamentals and techniques that allow his feet and eyes to work together and find completions,” O’Connell explained.
Minnesota’s offense has sputtered without McCarthy at the helm. Veteran backup Carson Wentz struggled in relief, managing only 144 passing yards with one touchdown and one interception during last week’s 37-10 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers. Despite playing through pain, Wentz’s performance underscored how much the Vikings depend on their young starter’s dual-threat ability and poise in the pocket.
Still, questions persist about McCarthy’s durability. After an impressive rookie campaign that ended prematurely due to injury, this latest setback has reignited concerns about whether the franchise’s investment in the young quarterback may be risky long-term.
Lions Getting Healthier at the Right Time
While Detroit will likely face McCarthy’s return, Dan Campbell’s squad is expecting reinforcements of its own. According to Jimmy Liao of USA Today’s Lions Wire, the Lions will welcome back key defenders after the bye, including Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph, who are both expected to return next week.
Cornerback Terrion Arnold and running back Sione Vaki are also on track to return shortly thereafter, with DJ Reed, Marcus Davenport, and Malcolm Rodriguez following in the coming weeks.
The Lions’ defense, battered by injuries over the past two seasons, is finally regaining its form — just in time for the crucial stretch of the season. With Aidan Hutchinson leading a resurgent pass rush and the secondary nearing full strength, Detroit looks ready to fortify its hold atop the NFC North.
The Bottom Line
The Lions’ upcoming clash with the Vikings could serve as a pivotal moment in the NFC North race — but Minnesota’s uncertainty at quarterback adds an intriguing wrinkle. If McCarthy is fully healthy, Detroit will face a dynamic, mobile playmaker looking to reassert himself. If not, the Lions may have a clear advantage against a weakened opponent.
Either way, the message is clear: as the Lions get healthier, stronger, and more confident, the rest of the division is on notice.