Inside J.J. McCarthy's 'redshirt' season and why it could pay dividends in 2025

The unfortunate season-ending injury to J.J. McCarthy temporarily puts the Minnesota Vikings' young franchise quarterback on the shelf until 2025, but the development plan should not change for the No. 10 overall pick in the 2024 draft. 

Although an arduous recovery from a torn meniscus will limit the rookie quarterback's experience to film room sessions and chalk talks conducted in the classroom or on the field, McCarthy can take advantage of his unexpected "redshirt" season to become a better player and franchise leader on and off the field. 

Moreover, the time away from the field could help him develop a routine that helps him maximize his talent and potential as the QB1 of a unit loaded with explosive playmakers on the perimeter. 

From Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison to T.J. Hockenson to Aaron Jones, McCarthy will step into a huddle in 2025 with a collection of stars. They can carry him until he's ready to transition from game manager to premier playmaker in a quarterback-friendly system that creates big-play opportunities for passers through clever scheming by Kevin O'Connell & Co. 

Though McCarthy will miss a chance to step onto the field as a rookie to showcase his talents, the time away from the field could make him an impact player next season. After working through a diligent rehabilitation program to help him rebuild his knee and strengthen his body from head to toe, McCarthy could become a stronger and more potent pocket passer. In addition, he could extend his range to force defenders to cover every blade of grass from sideline to sideline and end line to end line. 

Given the Vikings' weapons on the outside, McCarthy's ability to throw the deep ball could add a dimension to an offense that featured a