Giants Make J.J. McCarthy Backup Quarterback Against Commanders

The New York Giants elevated J.J. McCarthy to the No. 2 quarterback role for their game against the Washington Commanders on Sunday, giving the former Minnesota Vikings quarterback a chance to play after his late September trade to New York. Big Blue View and CBS Sports reported McCarthy moved ahead of Jake Haener on the depth chart.

McCarthy was active as the backup behind starter Jameis Winston, while Haener served as the emergency third quarterback, according to Big Blue View. Running back Devin Singletary was inactive for a third consecutive game, while New York also listed Jason Pinnock, J.C. Davis, Bobby Jamison-Travis and Nikko Reed among its inactives.

The Commanders welcomed back quarterback Jayden Daniels and wide receiver Terry McLaurin from injuries, according to Big Blue View. Washington was without wide receiver Stefon Diggs, quarterback Marcus Mariota, defensive end Charles Omenihu and safeties Nick Cross, Percy Butler and Tyler Owens.

CBS Sports reported McCarthy had time to learn the Giants' playbook after arriving from Minnesota in late September, while Winston remained the starter. The move made McCarthy the official backup after Jake Haener filled that role in the previous game.

McCarthy's trade from the Vikings drew discussion after Minnesota moved forward with other quarterback options during the 2026 season. Former NFL scout John Middlekauff discussed the situation on the "3 and Out" podcast.

"I just don't think you have many options," said John Middlekauff, former NFL scout.

Middlekauff continued his assessment of Minnesota's quarterback situation while discussing possible alternatives for the franchise. His comments focused on the team's decision to move on from McCarthy after selecting other options.

"Who are you trading for? Would the Dolphins trade Malik Willis for a second-round pick? Could you offer three first-rounders for Herbert if the team is just imploding and maybe they go winless and draft a quarterback? You would do that if you were Minnesota." said John Middlekauff, former NFL scout.

The Giants then gave McCarthy his first appearance of the season during the game in Washington, according to NBC Sports. He entered for one play after Winston completed a third-and-13 pass to Isaiah Likely.

"I just don't really see your options… I think it also speaks to how bad they think J.J. McCarthy sucks. They named Kyler the starting quarterback like a week into August.

They have to think J.J. McCarthy is such a scrub." said John Middlekauff, former NFL scout.

NBC Sports reported McCarthy's first Giants snap resulted in a quick pass to Darnell Mooney that lost five yards before a facemask penalty helped extend the drive. Winston returned on the following play, and New York later attempted a 50-yard field goal.