Giants give update on J.J. McCarthy’s status for Commanders matchup

October 6, 2026

The New York Giants are accelerating the integration of backup quarterback J.J. McCarthy ahead of Sunday’s matchup with the Washington Commanders, with head coach John Harbaugh leaving the door open for McCarthy to step into the No.

2 role behind starter Jameis Winston. McCarthy, acquired in a trade from the Vikings just six days ago, was active for the Giants’ 36–24 win over the Arizona Cardinals last weekend but did not see any game action, despite having pre-planned offensive packages designed around him.

Winston, meanwhile, threw three touchdown passes and two interceptions in the victory, which improved New York’s record to 3–1 after a slow start to the season.

Offensively, the Giants also addressed a key injury when kickoff and punt returner Braxton Berrios exited the Cardinals game with a foot or ankle issue, potentially sidelining him for the next four weeks. With Berrios likely headed to injured reserve, Charlie Jones—who joined the team last week after being signed off the practice squad—will take over as the primary returner.

Jones, a former Bengals player with experience in both kickoff and punt returns, made an immediate impact in his Giants debut with two returns of each type.