McCarthy reportedly made decision to sit out Vikings' preseason finale

J.J. McCarthy, the Minnesota Vikings' quarterback, reportedly decided to sit out the preseason finale against the Broncos, according to sources. Initially reported as a "day-to-day" injury, the ankle issue has now been confirmed as a multi-week ailment. McCarthy's decision to not play was made of his own accord, not the team's, according to The Star Tribune’s Ben Goessling.

Head coach Kevin O’Connell had initially planned for McCarthy to play and potentially start the first half, but the quarterback cited discomfort in not participating. This development comes after McCarthy struggled with injuries throughout his rookie season and again last year. With veteran Kyler Murray taking over as the starter, questions have arisen about McCarthy's role on the team.

The latest news suggests that Carson Wentz will likely begin the regular season as the team's backup quarterback, with McCarthy's future on the roster still uncertain as the Vikings prepare for their season opener against Green Bay on Sept. 13.