The Detroit Lions are currently enjoying their bye week in the middle of a hectic 2025 NFL season. Having no game in Week 8 not only gives the Lions time to heal but also provides an opportunity to study the rest of the NFC North. Detroit’s coaches and fans will undoubtedly be watching the Minnesota Vikings closely, as the two teams will meet in Week 9.

The Vikings kick off Week 8 on Thursday Night Football in Los Angeles against the Chargers. Although it has already been confirmed that quarterback Carson Wentz will start once again for Minnesota, there’s a strong possibility that J.J. McCarthy will be back by Week 9.

According to Sean Borman of Vikings Territory, Tom Pelissero mentioned on KFAN 100.3 that “all the indications are pointing to J.J. McCarthy being available for the Lions game next Sunday.” If that holds true, McCarthy’s expected return could be exactly the challenge both Lions fans and cornerback Terrion Arnold are looking forward to.

Terrion Arnold Should Be Eager to Face J.J. McCarthy

Arnold hasn’t taken the field since Week 5 due to a shoulder injury sustained against the Cincinnati Bengals. Before that setback, the 22-year-old was having one of his best outings of the season. Despite drawing two penalties, Arnold earned his top coverage grade of the year at 56.6 and an overall mark of 58.2, according to Pro Football Focus.

While PFF grades aren’t everything, most Lions fans would agree that Arnold’s play in that game was impressive. Detroit’s secondary seemed to fall apart after he left, which made his injury even more painful. Fortunately, if both Arnold and McCarthy return in Week 9, Arnold should be ready to resume his strong form.

McCarthy wasn’t particularly sharp in the two games before his injury. He completed only 58.5% of his passes for 301 yards, two touchdowns, and three interceptions, with a passer rating of 67.2, while being sacked nine times. Given the pressure he’s likely to face and his inconsistency, Arnold has to be licking his chops.

Additionally, in the two games Arnold has played against the Vikings in his career, he has performed well. He posted his best coverage grades of his rookie year (71.8, 70.2) in those contests, both of which Detroit won. This proves he can elevate his game in division battles and could continue to excel, as McCarthy has yet to establish himself as a major threat.

With an extra week of recovery, the Lions hope Arnold will be ready to return against the Vikings next week.