Desperate New York Giants trade for NFL bust JJ McCarthy in bombshell move after Jaxson Dart injury

The New York Giants have sealed a shock trade for Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy following the season-ending injury suffered by Jaxson Dart.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter confirmed the news on Monday, revealing that Minnesota had agreed to send McCarthy to New York in exchange for a fifth-round pick. 

The move comes after Dart was ruled out for the remainder of the regular season following a knee injury suffered during their Week 2 defeat to the LA Rams. 

While veteran Jameis Winston led New York to a gritty 12-7 win over the Tennessee Titans on Sunday, general manager Joe Schoen and head coach John Harbaugh have wasted no time in adding further depth to their quarterback room.

The Giants had previously evaluated McCarthy prior to the 2024 NFL Draft but opted to select Malik Nabers with the sixth overall pick.

McCarthy, 23, was selected 10th overall by Minnesota two years ago after leading Michigan to a national championship under John Harbaugh’s brother, Jim. 

However, the 23-year-old found himself relegated to third on the Vikings’ depth chart this season behind starter Kyler Murray and backup Carson Wentz.

The former Michigan star has endured a rough ride in the NFL since getting drafted, after missing the entirety of his rookie season due to a torn meniscus. 

He returned to earn the starting nod for Minnesota in 2025, producing a 6-4 record across 10 starts while throwing for 1,632 yards and 11 touchdowns alongside 12 interceptions, while adding four scores on the ground.

However, nagging injuries repeatedly disrupted his momentum throughout his sophomore campaign, including a fractured hand that sidelined him late in the year.

Minnesota subsequently revamped its quarterback room this past offseason, leaving McCarthy on the outside looking in before New York came calling.

More to follow…