A new quarterback is joining the New York Giants.
The team acquired J.J. McCarthy for a 2027 fifth-round pick in a deal with the Minnesota Vikings on Monday.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter and NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo first reported the trade details. Both teams later confirmed the details.
McCarthy was the Vikings’ third-string quarterback behind Kyler Murray and Carson Wentz. He joins a thin group of quarterbacks for the Giants, who had been looking to add a new signal-caller after Jaxson Dart’s season-ending knee injury.
Jameis Winston started for New York in its 12-7 win over the Tennessee Titans on Sunday, completing 14 of 22 passes for 118 yards and no turnovers. Jake Haener, signed from the practice squad on Sunday, is the only other quarterback on the roster.
Since being drafted 10th overall in 2024, McCarthy has started just 10 games (all in 2025) for the Vikings. His stats include 1,632 passing yards, 15 total touchdowns (11 passing, four rushing) and 12 interceptions.
McCarthy missed all of his rookie season due to a torn meniscus, forcing Sam Darnold into the lineup as he led Minnesota to a 14-3 season. When Darnold left in free agency, McCarthy began 2025 as the Vikings’ quarterback — but he couldn’t stay on the field. He missed seven games on the year due to a high ankle sprain, a concussion and a hairline fracture in his throwing hand.
This trade marks a reunion of sorts for McCarthy, who played college ball at Michigan under Jim Harbaugh and won a national championship. His new coach, John Harbaugh, is the brother of his former coach.
The Giants (2-1) will remain at home in Week 4 for a game against the Arizona Cardinals this Sunday.
Here are five things to know about Vikings rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy.