Giants Hopeful for J.J. McCarthy’s Impact in Running Game
HOUSTON — The Giants might see a boost in their running game with J.J. McCarthy joining the starting lineup, possibly as early as Sunday against the Texans. McCarthy is a much more formidable runner compared to Jameis Winston, the quarterback he has taken over for.
However, there are concerns about the increased risks that come with McCarthy’s role in the rushing attack. At just 23, he has a track record of injuries of various kinds during his brief NFL career.
In fact, he missed his entire rookie season in 2024 after tearing his meniscus in a preseason game, which required knee surgery. Then in Week 2 of 2025, he suffered a high ankle sprain that kept him out for five games.
Additionally, he missed some time due to concussion protocol and had another absence later that season from a hairline fracture in his right hand sustained in a game against the Giants. Most recently, he couldn’t participate in the Vikings’ final preseason matchup due to an ankle sprain.
McCarthy must learn when to escape, slide, and protect himself if he wants to avoid further injuries. When utilized wisely, his skills in a run-pass option scheme could open up opportunities for the running backs, who have been underperforming this season.
On another note, the Giants are facing another setback as ILB Tremaine Edmunds has been ruled out for the rest of the season due to a shoulder injury. This is a huge blow for a defense that is already missing edge rusher Brian Burns, who landed on injured reserve after his knee injury in Week 3.
Edmunds has been a key player, leading the team with 50 tackles while appearing in all 380 defensive snaps during the first six games.
Micah McFadden is set to step in as Edmunds’ replacement, making his first start since the opening game of 2025 when he sustained a serious foot injury that sidelined him for most of that season. McFadden has a solid background, having started 35 games for the Giants in his first three years.
Meanwhile, safety Jevón Holland has been downgraded to out, having entered concussion protocol, and tight end Theo Johnson (neck) is also out, not traveling with the team.
Last week against the Saints, the Giants struggled significantly, managing just 34 rushing yards on 14 attempts from their running backs.
Patrick Ricard, the blocking fullback, described the performance as “embarrassing” and stated that any respectable running game should achieve at least 100 yards. He expressed frustration about not being able to run effectively, saying, “I take accountability. I feel like I need to do better.”
In a move to strengthen the roster, WR Jalin Hyatt has been activated from the practice squad for the first time this season.
Interestingly, McCarthy is returning to Houston with some fond memories, as this is the site where he won a national championship with Michigan on January 8, 2024, defeating Washington 34-13.
“It’s going to be really cool to be in Houston and I think we’re staying in the same hotel that we stayed in when we were there,” McCarthy noted, reflecting on the significance of the location.
