J.J. McCarthy drops hilarious reaction after ex-NFL star Robert Griffin III fails to recognize Vikings QB

Minnesota Vikings rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy turned a moment of confusion into comedy gold when former Washington QB Robert Griffin III struggled to identify him during the Vikings-Lions Sunday Night Football broadcast.

The Vikings' 10th overall pick in the 2024 draft has spent his entire rookie season sidelined with a meniscus injury that required knee surgery in the preseason. His appearance on the sidelines during this crucial matchup sparked widespread reactions across social media.

The playful interaction unfolded when Griffin III posted a live screengrab of McCarthy on the sidelines. NFL fans were particularly struck by the QB's youthful appearance, with many expressing surprise at how young he looked for an NFL signal-caller.

"That was not JJ McCarthy right? The flow is MAGNIFICENT REGARDLESS," Griffin III tweeted.

Griffin III then made a follow up tweet.

"Bro this you? @jjmccarthy09 The streets need to know," Griffin III wrote.

McCarthy's response proved he could score points even from the sidelines. He replied with the "Ver Ver Selb" GIF — a popular meme featuring German hockey player Michel Weidekamp biting a puck.

J.J. McCarthy's situation creates intrigue amid playoff push

Syndication: USA TODAY - Source: Imagn

The lighthearted exchange came amid an interesting period in Minnesota's QB room. Sam Darnold has emerged as one of the NFL's top performers, ranking in the top five for yards, touchdowns and passer rating.

"There is no reason for the Vikings to consider trading their first-round pick, J.J. McCarthy, a young player that they really like," NFL Network's Tom Pelissero said on 'NFL Gameday.' "He's missed his entire rookie season following knee surgery, that's a lot of missed reps. It's going to take him time to get up to speed, and frankly, Sam Darnold this season is a tough act to follow."

The viral moment occurred during a pivotal game that would determine whether Minnesota secured the No. 1 or No. 5 seed in the NFC. Darnold appears headed for a significant payday and his next deal could potentially be around $40 million annually through a franchise tag or extension — the Vikings remain committed to their QB duo.

Despite trade speculation, Minnesota's plan appears to involve keeping both signal-callers, giving them enviable depth at football's most important position.