Open Extended ReactionsEAGAN, Minn. -- The Minnesota Vikings plan to play quarterback J.J. McCarthy in their preseason opener Saturday against the Houston Texans, coach Kevin O'Connell said Monday. Last season, starter Sam Darnold played one series of the first preseason game and then sat out the next two games. It's unlikely that McCarthy will play in the Vikings' second preseason game, Aug. 16 against the New England Patriots, because the teams will have two days of joint practices before it. Then we'll assess that final preseason game as it comes." The majority of the Vikings' preseason reps are likely to be taken by veterans Sam Howell and Brett Rypien, along with rookie Max Brosmer.