Vikings rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy is sidelined with right knee soreness, causing him to miss practice and undergo further evaluation.

Why it matters: McCarthy's absence raises concerns about his availability for upcoming joint practices and preseason games, hindering his development as a young quarterback.

What's new: McCarthy reported the soreness after an impressive preseason debut, leaving the Vikings to take precautionary measures to assess his condition and ensure his long-term health.

Yes, but: The soreness is described as routine and not necessarily indicative of a significant injury. However, any setback for a promising rookie quarterback can impact his learning curve and potential playing time.

What to watch: The Vikings will closely monitor McCarthy's progress and determine if he can travel with the team for joint practices and the upcoming preseason game against the Browns.

What's next: The team's medical staff will conduct further testing to gain a comprehensive understanding of McCarthy's knee condition and develop an appropriate plan for his recovery and return to action.

• The Vikings currently have four quarterbacks on their training camp roster, providing depth and options in case McCarthy's absence prolongs or affects his availability during the regular season.

The bottom line: While McCarthy's knee soreness may be routine, it's crucial for the Vikings to handle his situation cautiously to avoid exacerbating any potential issues and ensuring his long-term development as a key piece of the team's future.

Vikings rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy is sidelined with right knee soreness, causing him to miss practice and undergo further evaluation.

Why it matters: McCarthy's absence raises concerns about his availability for upcoming joint practices and preseason games, hindering his development as a young quarterback.

What's new: McCarthy reported the soreness after an impressive preseason debut, leaving the Vikings to take precautionary measures to assess his condition and ensure his long-term health.

Yes, but: The soreness is described as routine and not necessarily indicative of a significant injury. However, any setback for a promising rookie quarterback can impact his learning curve and potential playing time.

What to watch: The Vikings will closely monitor McCarthy's progress and determine if he can travel with the team for joint practices and the upcoming preseason game against the Browns.

What's next: The team's medical staff will conduct further testing to gain a comprehensive understanding of McCarthy's knee condition and develop an appropriate plan for his recovery and return to action.

• The Vikings currently have four quarterbacks on their training camp roster, providing depth and options in case McCarthy's absence prolongs or affects his availability during the regular season.

The bottom line: While McCarthy's knee soreness may be routine, it's crucial for the Vikings to handle his situation cautiously to avoid exacerbating any potential issues and ensuring his long-term development as a key piece of the team's future.