JJ McCarthy made his return in a big way, leading the Vikings to a statement win over a division rival. After weeks on the sidelines, he brought a much-needed spark to Minnesota’s offense. The performance caught the attention of fantasy football managers looking for late-season quarterback help. With a favorable schedule ahead, McCarthy’s value is trending upward at the right time.
Should JJ McCarthy Be a Fantasy Football Waiver Wire Add in Week 10?
Rostered: 29%
Fresh off nearly a two-month layoff, JJ McCarthy came to play against his division rival. The Minnesota Vikings went into Detroit as heavy road underdogs and upset the Lions.
McCarthy played very well despite throwing for only 143 yards. He threw two touchdown passes and added a third on the ground.
The Vikings have a very favorable rest of the season schedule, beginning next week with a home date against the Baltimore Ravens in what should be a high-scoring contest, requiring McCarthy to air it out. McCarthy could be a high QB2 the rest of the way.
Aggressiveness Rating: 1.5
McCarthy’s Return Ignites Vikings’ Playoff Push
McCarthy’s dynamic return couldn’t have come at a better moment for Minnesota, injecting life into a team fighting to stay relevant in the NFC playoff race. Against Detroit, he showed why patience from the coaching staff paid off, managing the game efficiently and making decisive plays in critical situations. His blend of mobility and poise under pressure enabled the Vikings’ offense to capitalize in the red zone — a weakness exposed during his absence.
If recent trends continue, McCarthy’s resurgence will keep fantasy managers watching closely as he faces Baltimore and other favorable opponents down the stretch. The supporting cast, from receivers who benefited from shorter throws to a ground game freed up by his threat to run, looks poised for improved production. That balance makes Minnesota less predictable and increases McCarthy’s upside.
While he still has room to grow, particularly in generating more yardage through the air, the evidence points to a quarterback ready to take command as the season heads into its most unpredictable stretch.
As the Vikings gear up for pivotal matchups, McCarthy’s steady leadership and renewed confidence may be just what this roster needs to keep its playoff hopes alive. Fantasy managers searching for quarterback help should be ready to make McCarthy a priority add, with his schedule and upside marking him as one of the more intriguing late-season options around.