Giants acquire quarterback J.J. McCarthy in trade, citing scheme fit and low cost

The New York Giants sent a 2027 fifth-round selection to the Minnesota Vikings on Monday to acquire quarterback J.J. McCarthy, the former 10th overall pick of the 2024 draft. The trade comes as the Giants address the loss of backup Jaxson Dart, who underwent season-ending surgery, and the injury to pass rusher Brian Burns.

Giants head coach John Harbaugh said the team is evaluating all options and emphasized the need for a player who fits the current offensive system. > "He can throw it. He can run it. He can make plays," Harbaugh said of McCarthy, adding that the quarterback’s mobility could complement the Giants’ run-heavy playbook and allow more bootleg and play-action concepts.

Coaches familiar with the Giants’ scheme noted that McCarthy’s skill set mirrors the zone-read and option elements employed by senior offensive assistant Greg Roman. An AFC assistant said McCarthy’s speed makes him a natural fit for those concepts, while an NFC assistant observed that the Vikings had designed quarterback runs for him during the offseason.

The trade’s price also factors into the decision. A senior NFC executive highlighted that a fifth-round pick is a relatively low cost for a former top-10 selection, comparing the deal to past trades involving quarterbacks such as Josh Rosen, Sam Darnold and Trey Lance, who were acquired for later-round picks after limited production.

Vikings general manager Nolan Teasley said the organization acted in its best interest by moving on from McCarthy, who had fallen behind other quarterbacks on the depth chart. He added that the Giants see potential for McCarthy to develop further in the league.

Harbaugh confirmed that Jameis Winston will start the upcoming game against the Arizona Cardinals and declined to project the quarterback situation beyond the current season. > "Our design is to win the next game… Jameis will be the starter for as long as I can see into the future," he said.