Vikings star leaves game after suffering hand injury during turnover

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

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 passes against the New York Giants, 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, 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