# Harbaugh Explains Switch to J.J. McCarthy at QB

> Giants switch QB to J.J. McCarthy for better offense after Winston's mismatch.
- Title: Harbaugh Explains Switch to J.J. McCarthy at QB | Shortify
- Summary: Giants switch QB to J.J. McCarthy for better offense after Winston's mismatch. New York Giants switch quarterback from Jameis Winston to J.J. McCarthy to…
- Keywords: new york giants, j.j. mccarthy, jameis winston, john harbaugh, nfl, quarterback, offense, sports, Harbaugh, Explains, Switch, McCarthy
- Source: New York Giants On SI — https://si.com/nfl/giants/onsi/harbaugh-explains-jj-mccarthy-quarterback-switch-giants-01m5g99g9xys
- Published: 2026-10-21T22:32:21+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: new york giants, j.j. mccarthy, jameis winston, john harbaugh, nfl, quarterback, offense, sports
## Giants switch quarterback
New York Giants head coach John Harbaugh made a big switch at quarterback from Jameis Winston to J.J. McCarthy.
## Harbaugh's reasoning
Harbaugh said the move gives the Giants the best chance to play their best offense and provides better options for the quarterback position.
## Why switch?
The Giants switched to McCarthy because his skill set matches what they lost when starter Jaxson Dart went down in Week 2.
## Winston's role
Winston helped the Giants reach a 2-1-1 record with a modified game plan each week.
## Harbaugh's confidence
Harbaugh admitted McCarthy has a skill set the Giants can take advantage of and is excited to see what they can do with him.
## Offensive continuity
The offense will be mostly the same for McCarthy as it was for Winston and Dart, with some plays better suited to each quarterback.
## Next game
The Giants aim to win a very winnable NFC East and play Houston next.
## Key takeaway

New York Giants switch quarterback from Jameis Winston to J.J. McCarthy to improve offensive fit after Winston's skill set clashed with their game plan.