Dave Portnoy calls out Vikings over handling of J.J. McCarthy originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Former Minnesota Vikings first-round pick J.J. McCarthy got his first action with the New York Giants as a legitimate option this past Sunday in Week 6 against the New Orleans Saints, attempting 21 passes and completing 11.
McCarthy certainly didn't have the best stat line, completing just 52.4% of his passes, but he also threw for 243 yards and a touchdown. He looked to be a serviceable option for the Giants, and at 23 years old, there's reason to believe he can eventually be just that.
In regard to how others felt, some are taking it a step further. That includes Dave Portnoy, the Barstool founder, owner, and University of Michigan fan. Portnoy has loved McCarthy ever since he helped Michigan win a national title, rightfully so, but believes that he didn't get a fair shake in Minnesota. In regards to that comment alone, it's not unfair to say that Portnoy has a point.
“I never thought he got a fair shake in Minnesota. He never got a fair shake. He got hurt right away and then never got back in the flow. I’ve always been a JJ fan. I saw what he did every single game at Michigan. I said when the Giants got him, they got a winner,” Portnoy said, H/T Heavy.
There are a couple of ways to look at what Portnoy is saying, but the reality is that McCarthy didn't get a fair chance in terms of games played.
He appeared in only 10 games for the Vikings and dealt with multiple injuries during his time with the organization.
Given the talent he showed at Michigan, it's not a crazy idea to suggest he could be a good player one day.
Perhaps he's not the perfect answer for what the Giants are looking to do this season, and there are obviously questions about whether he'll play next year with Jaxson Dart returning, but if he can get his career back on track, there's reason to believe he can be a decent player one day.
More NFL news:
- Broncos eventually have to make tough decision on Bo Nix’s future in Denver
- Jerry Jeudy could be showcased as trade candidate over next few weeks
- Dan Quinn is clearly on the hot seat amid 3-13-1 stretch
- Daron Bland gets reality check that could lead to trade or cut
- Tyler Shough reveals the key area he needs to improve