New York Giants bench Jameis Winston for J.J. McCarthy

The New York Giants plan to bench starting quarterback Jameis Winston and name J.J. McCarthy as their starter for Sunday's game against the Houston Texans, Fox News and CBS Sports reported, citing ESPN. The 23-year-old McCarthy will make his first career start for the team, while Winston moves to a backup role. [1][2]

The Giants originally turned to Winston after primary quarterback Jaxson Dart suffered a season-ending injury in Week 2, CBS Sports reported. Winston played as the starter over the subsequent five games, leading the team to a 3-2-1 record that currently places them at the top of the NFC East division. [1][2]

The Giants acquired McCarthy in a trade from the Minnesota Vikings earlier this season, Fox News and CBS Sports reported. McCarthy previously saw action in specialized packages during a 27-27 tie with the Washington Commanders in Week 5 before throwing for 243 yards in a fourth-quarter appearance against the New Orleans Saints. [1][2]

Winston joined the Giants on a two-year contract in 2025 following a four-year stint with the New Orleans Saints and five seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who selected him first overall in the 2015 NFL Draft. The Giants now look to McCarthy to lead their offense in a competitive NFC East play-off race. [1][7]