J.J. McCarthy won't play for Vikings in preseason finale, due to ankle injury

Key Points:

• J.J. McCarthy will not play in the Vikings' preseason game against the Denver Broncos due to an ankle injury sustained last Saturday against the Ravens, limiting his opportunity to compete for the backup quarterback spot behind Kyler Murray.
• McCarthy's injury is not considered long-term, but with roster cuts looming, the Vikings face a decision between keeping McCarthy or Max Brosmer as the backup quarterback, especially if Carson Wentz secures the primary backup role.
• Brosmer could be waived and potentially join the practice squad, though he risks being claimed by another team, while McCarthy might be placed on short-term injured reserve to free up a roster spot.
• There is speculation that the Vikings might end their experiment with McCarthy, either by trading or releasing him, as his preseason performances have not shown improvement in key areas like durability and accuracy.
• The departure of the general manager who drafted McCarthy may make the Vikings more willing to objectively reassess his future with the team.