J.J. McCarthy saw his first preseason action in a 20-10 win over the Houston Texans, with the second-year quarterback going 4 of 7 on his pass attempts for 30 passing yards. Nonetheless, does McCarthy face pressure heading into Year 1 as a starter?

J.J. McCarthy’s return to the field has the Vikings excited, as the franchise harbors serious aspirations of becoming one of the top contenders this season. Kevin O’Connell, the talented head coach of this team, shared his thoughts on this new chapter.

Knowing the defense’s potential and believing in an improved special teams unit, what can this talented Vikings roster accomplish if McCarthy refrains from the disastrous negatives? It’s a good question.

J.J. McCarthy made a solid return for the Vikings, completing 4 of 7 passes for 30 yards in a preseason win over the Houston Texans.

J.J. McCarthy is back. The Minnesota Vikings quarterback returned to the gridiron for Saturday's preseason matchup against the Houston Texans, marking his first appearance since suffering a knee injury in the preseason last year that ended his 2024 season before it truly began.

Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy runs the ball during the first half of an NFL preseason football game against the Houston Texans, Saturday, Aug. 9, 2025, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Matt Krohn) MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The emotions hit J.