J.J. McCarthy will start at quarterback for the New York Giants in Week 7, moving ahead of Jameis Winston in the lineup for their game against the Houston Texans. McCarthy, who had not thrown a pass for the Giants prior to last week, entered the game against the Saints in the fourth quarter and finished as the team's leading rusher. The Giants, currently 3-2-1 and leading the NFC East, are looking to improve their struggling offense against a Texans defense that has recorded 18 sacks this season.
McCarthy expressed his honor in being named the starting quarterback, stating, “Every time you step on the field, it’s an opportunity.” The Giants acquired him from the Vikings for a 2027 fifth-round draft choice, indicating they see potential beyond a short-term backup role. Winston, who had started the previous four games, has thrown seven touchdowns and five interceptions this season, while McCarthy has a modest record of 11 completions on 21 attempts for 243 yards, one touchdown, and one interception.
As the Giants prepare for their matchup in Houston, it remains uncertain whether McCarthy's start is a temporary adjustment or the beginning of a longer-term change in the quarterback hierarchy. For now, McCarthy is the starter, Winston is the backup, and Jake Haener serves as the emergency third quarterback.