J.J. McCarthy Named Giants’ Starting QB for Week 7 Against Texans
The New York Giants have named J.J. McCarthy their starting quarterback over Jameis Winston for Week 7 against the Texans.
The New York Giants will start J.J. McCarthy at quarterback for their Week 7 game against the Houston Texans, replacing Jameis Winston, according to head coach John Harbaugh.
This announcement follows McCarthy’s performance in the fourth quarter of the Giants’ recent 34-27 loss to the New Orleans Saints, where he threw for 243 yards and one touchdown, nearly leading a comeback from a 34-10 deficit. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler was among the first to report this change.
McCarthy joined the Giants from the Minnesota Vikings in a trade on September 28, for a fifth-round draft pick in 2027. Although he struggled initially, throwing an interception on his first drive against the Saints, he led multiple scoring drives. His play, including a field goal drive that cut the margin to seven points, has raised expectations about his starting potential.
Winston, who started in each of the Giants’ first four games this season, faced difficulties, throwing five interceptions during that span. He completed 14 of 26 passes for 152 yards and one touchdown against the Saints. The Giants hold a 3-2-1 record, putting them in contention for the NFC East title.
Following the decision, Winston expressed his understanding, stating, “Every single week, you’re defined by the last time you stepped foot on the field.” He remains committed to supporting McCarthy in his new role. McCarthy has praised Winston’s mentorship, calling him a “great teacher” and noting how helpful he has been since arriving in New York.
McCarthy, drafted 10th overall by the Vikings in 2024, sees this opportunity as a chance to prove himself after a rocky start to his career marred by injuries and competition. “I believe just experience does wonders,” he said, emphasizing his readiness for the challenges of starting.
This week’s matchup against the Texans will mark McCarthy’s first start with the Giants, and he hopes to leverage this chance to establish himself as a reliable quarterback.
