Vikings Sign Desmond Ridder Following McCarthy’s Injury

The Vikings have added quarterback Desmond Ridder to their 53-man roster, just two days after starter JJ McCarthy injured his ankle during a loss to the Falcons.

This move could provide valuable experience for the team, as they prepare to face the Bengals this weekend with Carson Wentz taking the helm.

Reports suggest that McCarthy, who is 22, could be sidelined for about 2 to 4 weeks, as per ESPN.

Ridder, who is 26, has three seasons of NFL experience, having played six games with the Raiders last year. Originally a third-round pick by the Falcons in 2022, he was signed by the Bengals this past July but was released before the season began.

In his last preseason game, Ridder threw for 75 yards, helping his team secure a 20-8 victory over the Colts.

McCarthy’s injury occurred during a third-quarter play where he was evaluated for side issues. Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell mentioned that there was considerable swelling and noted it might be worse than initially thought due to adrenaline at the time.

O’Connell expressed his disappointment regarding McCarthy’s injury, saying he was “very crushed” to hear the news.

As for the upcoming game, Wentz, at 32 years old, is set to start for the Vikings against the Bengals, marking an interesting moment in NFL history as he becomes the first quarterback to start games for six different teams in six consecutive seasons.