New York Giants coach John Harbaugh indicated Monday that newly acquired quarterback J.J. McCarthy could be elevated to the backup role behind Jameis Winston for Sunday’s Week 5 game against the Washington Commanders.
The comment came during Harbaugh’s regular media availability as the team begins preparations for the NFC East matchup.
“I think that’s a possibility. We’ll see how it goes during the week, but that’s definitely on the table,” Harbaugh said.
McCarthy arrived in New York last week via trade from the Minnesota Vikings. The Giants surrendered a 2027 fifth-round draft selection to complete the deal for the 23-year-old.
In Sunday’s 36-24 victory over the Arizona Cardinals, McCarthy was active but listed as the third quarterback. He remained behind Winston and Jake Haener, who was called up from the practice squad for the contest.
The quarterback room has been reshuffled since starter Jaxson Dart suffered a season-ending knee injury in Week 2 against the Los Angeles Rams. Dart sustained damage to his meniscus along with his MCL and PCL and underwent surgery, ruling him out for the regular season.
Winston has started the last two games and directed the Giants to consecutive wins.
He completed 14 of 22 passes for 118 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions in a 12-7 victory over the Tennessee Titans in Week 3. Winston then went 18 of 29 for 250 yards, three touchdowns and two interceptions against Arizona.
Across his three appearances this season, Winston is 43 of 78 for 479 yards, three touchdowns and three interceptions, producing a 70.4 passer rating. Those results have moved the Giants to 3-1 and into sole possession of first place in the NFC East.
McCarthy was the 10th overall selection in the 2024 draft and missed his entire rookie season with a knee injury. He started 10 games for Minnesota in 2025, posting a 6-4 record while completing 140 of 243 passes for 1,632 yards, 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.
Moving him ahead of Haener on the depth chart would reflect positive early reviews from the coaching staff during practice sessions.
McCarthy has yet to take a snap in a Giants uniform.
Washington enters the game with a 1-3 record. Final decisions on the quarterback order are expected later in the week after additional evaluation.
