Giants' J.J. McCarthy Faces Durability Concerns Amidst Increased Rushing Role
Quarterback's running ability could boost the Giants' struggling run game, but a history of injuries raises concerns.
The New York Giants are looking to J.J. McCarthy to revitalize their run game, with the quarterback set to start and contribute as a runner. McCarthy, who replaced Jameis Winston, is seen as a more potent threat on the ground. However, his inclusion in the rushing attack comes with a significant caveat due to his injury history.
McCarthy, 23, has experienced multiple injuries in his brief NFL career. He missed his entire rookie season in 2024 due to a torn meniscus requiring surgery. In 2025, he sustained a high ankle sprain in Week 2, sidelining him for five games. He also missed time due to concussion protocol and a hairline fracture in his right hand. Most recently, a sprained ankle kept him out of the Vikings' final preseason game this past August.
For McCarthy's durability, learning when to run, when to slide, and how to protect himself will be crucial. His ability in the run-pass option (RPO) scheme has the potential to create running lanes for the team's running backs, a unit that has underperformed. The Giants' running backs managed only 34 rushing yards on 14 attempts in their Week 6 loss to the Saints. Fullback Patrick Ricard described the situation as "embarrassing" and stated that a "decent type of run game" should yield at least 100 yards. Ricard expressed frustration, acknowledging his own accountability and the need to perform better.
WR Jalin Hyatt has been activated from the practice squad for the first time this season.
The Giants are also facing significant defensive setbacks. Inside linebacker Tremaine Edmunds has been placed on season-ending injured reserve with a shoulder injury. Edmunds had led the team in tackles and played every snap through the first six games. His replacement, Micah McFadden, is making his first start since the 2025 opener, having missed the rest of that season with a serious foot injury. Safety Jevón Holland has been ruled out for the upcoming game against the Texans due to a concussion. Tight end Theo Johnson (neck) was also ruled out and did not travel with the team.
McCarthy's first start with the Giants will take place in Houston, a city holding positive memories for him. He won the national championship with Michigan at NRG Stadium on January 8, 2024, defeating Washington. McCarthy noted that the team is staying in the same hotel they used during that championship run.