It's been a while since we've seen J.J. McCarthy start for the Vikings. Here's what we know about his status entering Week 9.

ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter provided some clarity on the Minnesota Vikings' expected trade deadline strategy.

With that prior up-and-down play in mind, it'd be hard to ignore the possibility of the Vikings shielding McCarthy, particularly over these last few weeks when Wentz was injured. With him now on IR, however, McCarthy has to come out of the shadows and either prove that he is the franchise centerpiece or not.

This almost felt inevitable but J.J. McCarthy is expected to return for Week 9's battle against the Detroit Lions. Minnesota is under .500 and now Carson Wentz

Unfortunately for McCarthy, Hutchinson has returned to his true form after his injury -- resembling the player who’s an early favorite to win this season’s Defensive Player of the Year award. Hutchinson is currently tied for fifth among all edge rushers in sacks (six) and first in pressures (48).

The Minnesota Vikings’ struggles continued in Week 8. They dropped to 3-4 after a 37-10 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers on Thursday night. The offense looked out of rhythm under backup quarterback Carson Wentz, who completed 15 of 27 passes for 144 yards, a touchdown and an interception while facing heavy pressure throughout the game.

Carson Wentz went down with a season-ending shoulder injury that will require surgery. He now goes out on his shield after taking a beating from the Los Angeles Chargers, and it means they also need a new backup for J.J. McCarthy.

According to multiple reporters on the scene, McCarthy was practicing on Monday during the media’s brief viewing window. Carson Wentz, who has started the last five games for Minnesota, was not seen participating in the session.

Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy took a hit to his injured right ankle during Thursday night's game.