Giants count on J.J. McCarthy's mobility in first New York start

First-place club elevates 2024 No. 10 pick over Winston

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 41m1 min read

J.J. McCarthy provided a spark with his arm and his legs last week vs. New Orleans. In his first start as a Giant, New Via @JFowlerESPN on X

What happened: New York is tailoring its offensive game plan around J.J. McCarthy's dual-threat capability after his relief outing against New Orleans last week, per ESPN's Jeremy Fowler and Jordan Raanan. Coaches expect his ability to extend plays on the ground to spark an attack that fell behind before losing 34-27 last Sunday.

Why it matters: The move puts McCarthy in command of a division-leading roster despite Russell Wilson advocating earlier this week for Jameis Winston to get one more nod. Handing the offense to the former Michigan standout gives the Giants a scrambling threat at quarterback as they look to protect their NFC East lead.

By the numbers: In 11 minutes of fourth-quarter action against the Saints last Sunday, McCarthy completed 11 of 21 passes for 243 yards, one touchdown, and one interception while adding 26 rushing yards.

What to watch: McCarthy makes his first start for the Giants on Sunday against the Houston Texans.

Sources

@JFowlerESPN 2026-10-22T02:43:10.944252+00:00

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