Home / Sports / Vikings Gamble: McCarthy Out, Beckham In?
Vikings Gamble: McCarthy Out, Beckham In?
11 Oct
Summary
- Vikings surprisingly benched J.J. McCarthy for Odell Beckham Jr.
- Justin Jefferson injured his ankle in Week 3, status uncertain.
- Odell Beckham Jr. was elevated from the practice squad for Week 5.
The Minnesota Vikings have made an unexpected strategic shift in their 2026 campaign, sidelining J.J. McCarthy, their presumed franchise quarterback, in favor of veteran wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. This move occurred as their star receiver, Justin Jefferson, nurses an ankle injury.
Jefferson sustained the injury in the first quarter of their Week 3 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. While he was listed as questionable for the Week 5 game against the New Orleans Saints, there is hope he might play, depending on his condition during warm-ups. Odell Beckham Jr. was elevated from the practice squad to provide additional support for the game.
The Vikings faced the Saints on Sunday, October 10, 2026, at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. The Vikings entered the game with a 4-0 record, while the Saints had a 1-3 record. The broadcast was set for FOX at 1:00 PM ET.
