JJ McCarthy isn’t spending much time looking backward.
The Giants quarterback said Wednesday he had not been keeping up with the Minnesota Vikings’ latest moves, including the reunion with Kirk Cousins. McCarthy, who was drafted by Minnesota with the 10th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft before landing in New York in September, made it clear his attention is locked on the team he’s with now.
“To be honest with you, no. I mean, obviously there’s one of the 32 teams out there, but all I’m focused on is Giants and who we’re playing that week,” McCarthy said.
When reporters asked whether he had watched the Vikings’ recent game, McCarthy said he had heard about it. He also made sure to speak warmly about the people he left behind in Minnesota.
“Those are my former brothers and a lot of relationships that, you know, I still have to this day. And I wish them nothing but the best,” he said.
McCarthy didn’t initially realize Minnesota had brought in another quarterback. Once reporters told him Cousins was back, he responded with immediate goodwill.
“Kirk Cousins is going back. Yeah, wish him nothing but the best of luck,” McCarthy said.
“And, I know he’s loved in that building. So he’d be a great fit.”
Cousins is back in Minnesota after spending six seasons there before moving on to Atlanta in 2024. His return brings him back together with head coach Kevin O’Connell and several familiar teammates.
For McCarthy, though, the story stops there. His focus is on the Giants and their Thursday matchup against the Washington Commanders.
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