Giants Will Keep Using “McCarthy Package” so Former Viking Can Play

The New York Giants plan to continue utilizing a dedicated package of plays for newly acquired quarterback JJ McCarthy to aid his development. Following a trade from the Minnesota Vikings for a 2027 fifth-round draft pick, McCarthy made his Giants debut in Week 5 against the Washington Commanders. Head coach John Harbaugh views the sub-formation packages as an effective way to leverage McCarthy's mobility as a change of pace behind current starter Jameis Winston.

McCarthy logged limited official snaps during New York's tie with Washington, primarily running the ball while attempting passes that were negated by penalties. Winston stepped into the starting quarterback role after Jaxson Dart suffered a season-ending knee injury. Ted Schwerzler of MinnesotaSportsFan notes that while the Giants have started the season 3-1-1, McCarthy must prove his passing efficiency before earning an opportunity to compete for the primary starting role.