Vikings star leaves game after suffering hand injury during turnover

Minnesota Vikings

Vikings star leaves game after suffering hand injury during turnover

McCarthy appeared to injure himself in the second quarter

Ryan Gaydos Fox News

Published

December 21, 2025 3:02pm EST

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Tyler Nubin runs back fumble 27-yards for TD, shrinking Giants' deficit against Vikings | NFL Highlights

Tyler Nubin ran back fumble 27-yards for TD to shrink the New York Giants' deficit against the Minnesota Vikings.

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Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy exited Sunday’s game against the New York Giants with a hand injury, which he apparently suffered on a turnover in the second quarter.

McCarthy dropped back to pass and was immediately hit by Giants linebacker Brian Burns. The veteran defender forced a fumble and Giants defensive back Tyler Nubin picked the ball up and scored a touchdown.

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Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) passes against the New York Giants during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025, in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

The second-year quarterback had his hand checked out on the sideline and appeared to be in pain. He went to the locker room before the half was finished. The Vikings had a 13-10 lead at the time.

McCarthy was 9-of-14 with 108 passing yards and an interception. He scored a rushing touchdown in the second quarter to help the Vikings take a 10-point lead at the time.

Injury issues have plagued McCarthy throughout the season. He suffered a high ankle sprain during the team’s Week 2 loss against the Atlanta Falcons. He didn’t return to the field until Week 9 against the Detroit Lions.

Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) celebrates with teammates after scoring a touchdown against the New York Giants during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025, in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

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He also missed the team’s Week 13 game against the Seattle Seahawks with a concussion.

McCarthy had shown flashes of brilliance during the season but his inability to connect with star wide receiver Justin Jefferson had been a befuddling question mark throughout the season. The Vikings entered Week 16 with a 6-8 record.

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Max Brosmer came into the game for McCarthy.

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Ryan Gaydos is a senior editor for Fox News Digital.

Vikings star leaves game after suffering hand injury during turnover