J.J. McCarthy’s Performance in Joint Practices with the Patriots
J.J. McCarthy’s outing during his first joint practice with the Patriots mirrored his typical performance throughout the Vikings training camp, showing a mix of highs and lows, though there were more positives than negatives. He made some impressive throws but also had a notable moment with an interception where he missed his target significantly.
The following day was a marked improvement for McCarthy. He found his flow in the second practice, making significant progress against the New England defense. He demonstrated decisiveness and accuracy, throwing precise passes into challenging spots. This performance was arguably one of his best of the camp, potentially topping the list.
Leading up to Wednesday’s practice, McCarthy reviewed film from the Patriots’ first preseason game but noted that he encountered unexpected looks. On Thursday, he adjusted his approach, focusing on understanding the call and refining his fundamentals. “Hear the call, play the call, focus on my fundamentals,” he explained regarding his mindset shift.
This strategy paid off as McCarthy described feeling more decisive and focused. He emphasized that the entire offense was performing well, and he felt the ball placement improved significantly, resulting in a more productive day overall.
Head Coach Kevin O’Connell echoed this sentiment, noting McCarthy’s decisiveness and strong decision-making in throwing the ball accurately, which provided valuable building blocks for future practices.
Though McCarthy had a rocky start—completing only one out of five passes initially—he quickly hit his stride in 11-on-11 drills. He started a streak of completions after an initial setback, showing impressive throws to various receivers, including a standout pass to Aaron Jones for a touchdown.
The practice was not just about McCarthy’s performance; the Vikings’ defense also improved from the previous day, proving more formidable against the Patriots’ offense. Notable defensive plays were made by Jonathan Greenard, among others, showcasing a well-rounded day for the Vikings overall.
