Giants to start J.J. McCarthy against the Texans, per report

Posted by Admin October 21, 2026 NFL

The New York Giants are planning to start J.J. McCarthy against the Houston Texans, per a report from ESPN. Head coach John Harbaugh confirmed that decision after Wednesday’s practice.

The Giants traded a fifth-round pick to the Minnesota Vikings for McCarthy following the injury that cost Jaxson Dart his season.

The former 10th overall pick was a backup and package player for the Giants until he was put on the field in place of Jameis Winston following the latter’s second interception against the Saints. McCarthy nearly led the Giants on a furious comeback, but while he didn’t win the game, he seems to have won the chance to start.

McCarthy was considered a potential pick for the Giants at No. 6 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, but New York ultimately chose wide receiver Malik Nabers out of LSU. Instead, the Vikings traded up from 11th overall to secure the rights to draft McCarthy out of Michigan with the 10th overall pick.

McCarthy wasn’t a high-volume passer at Michigan under Jim Harbaugh, however he did have a reputation as a smart quarterback who performed well in high-leverage situations.

McCarthy and Nabers showed an immediate rapport once McCarthy took the field in the fourth quarter against the Saints. The two connected for receptions of 46, 27, 13, and 9 yards, accounting for 95 of Nabers’ 165 yards on the day.

The decision to start McCarthy is likely due in part to the Giants’ struggles running the ball. Their offense was designed from the start with Jaxson Dart in mind and, like Dart, McCarthy is a highly athletic quarterback who’s able to add an explosive dimension to their backfield. McCarthy is also a much more mobile passer and has a stronger arm than Winston. He’s better able stress to defenses by extending the play, as well as stretch them vertically to prevent them from playing downhill.

The Giants are clearly hoping that, in addition to Winston’s limitations becoming increasingly apparent, McCarthy can spark the Giants’ offense and allow it to function as intended.

McCarthy’s first start comes as the Giants face a stiff test against the Houston Texans. The Giants are currently 9.5-point underdogs (per FanDuel) as they try to rebound from their loss against the Saints.

Let us know if you agree with the decision in the comments below.