Cam Newton calls out J.J McCarthy while backing Cowboys' playoff hopes

During a heated argument on "First Take," Cam Newton fired a shot at J.J. McCarthy as he argued with Dan Orlovsky over the Dallas Cowboys and their place in the 2025 NFL playoff picture.

Dan pressed Cam while talking about whether the Cowboys are still a playoff contender following their 1-2 record in Week 3.

“I can’t let you say that in your heart, you think they’re a playoff team?” he said.

On which Cam replied emphatically:

"Wild Card bro."

Dan challenged him further,

“You think they’re better than Green Bay?”

Cam said no.

“You think they’re better than San Fran?”

Cam conceded this time, saying they "can be," but insisted "San Francisco would skunk them."

When questioned if Dallas is better than Minnesota, Cam said yes, which prompted Dan to retort:

“Minnesota will beat them by 17.”

"'No, they won’t, not with J.J. McCarthy," Cam fired back. "Bro, are you serious? Did you watch? You know this caveat in the NFL, it's not about who's most talented. It's about who gets hot at the right time."

Minnesota Vikings' quarterback J.J McCarthy, drafted 10th overall in 2024, made his debut in Week 1 of the ongoing season after missing his rookie year with an injury. Against the Chicago Bears, he delivered a fourth-quarter rally, registering two touchdown passes and adding a rushing score to turn a 17-6 deficit into a 27-24 win. McCarthy finished 13 of 20 for 143 yards, with one interception.

However, in Week 2 against the Atlanta Falcons, McCarthy completed only 11 of 21 passes with two interceptions, three fumbles, and six packs. The rough match ended with a high ankle sprain, which is expected to sideline him for two to four weeks. Despite the setbacks, Minnesota views McCarthy as its long-term answer under centre.

Vikings drop injury update on J.J. McCarthy ahead of clash against the Steelers

The Minnesota Vikings confirmed that J.J McCarthy will go to Europe with the team as he recovers from a sprain in high right ankle.

McCarthy missed the win against Cincinnati, with Carson Wentz starting in his place.

“I spoke with JJ before the game and he told me his ankle feels great. He is down here, no boot on, walking up and down, and is hoping to get involved sooner, rather than later," CBS’ Tracy Wolfson reported.

The Vikings expect McCarthy to return in Week 7 against the Philadelphia Eagles after their bye. Wentz will continue as a starter in Europe.