Giants Name J.J. McCarthy Starting Quarterback
The New York Giants have named J.J. McCarthy the starter for the upcoming game against the Texans.
Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Football
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John Harbaugh has officially named J.J. McCarthy as the starting quarterback for the New York Giants in their upcoming matchup against the Texans. The team also announced the release of running back Najee Harris as part of roster management constraints.
Why it matters
The decision to name McCarthy the starter and release Harris reflects an effort to streamline the team roster and reduce the running back rotation. These moves are designed to accommodate other active players as the Giants prepare for their next game.
Paulson Adebo, who is signed to a three-year, $54 million contract, returns to the field after missing five games due to a knee injury. The team currently holds multiple injury concerns, including Greg Newsome II who is out with a concussion.
The players
John Harbaugh
He is the head coach of the New York Giants responsible for making roster decisions and setting the team's starting lineup.
J.J. McCarthy
He is a professional football player named the starting quarterback for the New York Giants.
Najee Harris
He is a professional football player who was recently released by the New York Giants.
Paulson Adebo
He is a professional football player returning to the active roster after recovering from a knee injury.
The details
In addition to the personnel changes at quarterback and running back, the team is navigating multiple injury setbacks. Tremaine Edmunds has suffered a season-ending shoulder injury, and Theo Johnson is currently considered doubtful for the upcoming game due to a neck injury.
Timeline
John Harbaugh announced J.J. McCarthy as the starting quarterback in October 2026.
The Giants play the Texans on Sunday, October 25, 2026.
Season Trajectory
These personnel shifts represent a significant realignment for the Giants as they look to solidify their rotation ahead of the mid-season stretch. By activating Paulson Adebo and setting the quarterback position, the team aims to improve its competitive standing within the league.
Paulson Adebo is expected to be activated off the injured reserve list and return to the field this Sunday. This roster change provides immediate depth for the Giants' defense as they face the Texans.
The takeaway
Maintaining roster flexibility remains critical for coaching staffs during the middle of a rigorous season. Fans and stakeholders should monitor how these strategic adjustments impact team performance in the coming weeks.
Further reading
For more on team developments, visit the Football section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by New York Post.
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