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How J.J. McCarthy fared in New York Giants debut against Commanders

New York Giants backup quarterback J.J. McCarthy made his NFL debut in Week 5 of the 2026 season, entering the game against the Washington Commanders in the first quarter on the Giants’ first offensive possession after starter Jameis Winston converted a third-and-13 pass to tight end Isaiah Likely.

McCarthy’s brief appearance lasted only one offensive snap, as he threw a quick pass to wide receiver Darnell Mooney that resulted in a five-yard loss—later nullified by a facemask penalty on the Commanders. Winston resumed the starting role immediately afterward, but the Giants’ offense struggled early, with a missed 50-yard field goal by kicker Dominic Zvada leaving Washington up 6-0 by the end of the first quarter.

The Giants’ first-half woes continued as Winston lost a fumble on a sack by Commanders linebacker K’Lavon Chaisson late in the second quarter, leading to a recovered fumble and a field goal by Washington kicker Drew Stevens. The Commanders took a 12-3 halftime lead, with Jayden Daniels—returning from a three-game absence due to an elbow injury—contributing two completions for 34 yards and five carries in the first half.

Meanwhile, Winston completed just 7 of 16 passes for 72 yards and was sacked twice in wet conditions, while the Giants managed only 70 total offensive yards.

Washington’s rushing attack dominated early, with running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt gaining 50 yards on seven carries, including a 33-yard touchdown on the Commanders’ first possession. The Giants’ offense, however, rallied in the fourth quarter, erasing a 14-point deficit to tie the game at 27-27 in overtime.

The Commanders failed to capitalize on a late opportunity after Giants running back Cam Skattebo’s fumble, with clock management errors preventing a potential game-winning field goal attempt.

McCarthy’s debut added intrigue to the Giants’ quarterback depth chart following the injury to starter Jameis Winston.

This report also draws on coverage from Pro Football Talk.

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