With rookie J.J. McCarthy sidelined by a high-ankle sprain, the Minnesota Vikings have confirmed veteran Carson Wentz will retain the starting quarterback role at least through their next few games. McCarthy, the 2024 first-round draft pick, is expected to miss two to four weeks as he rehabs the injury.
His absence clears the path for Wentz to start in Week 4 against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Dublin, Ireland — and potentially again in Week 5 when the Vikings travel to London to face the Cleveland Browns. Head coach Kevin O’Connell expressed confidence in Wentz’s ability to direct the offense, citing his clean decision-making during Minnesota’s dominant 48-10 win over Cincinnati: 14 completions on 20 attempts, two touchdown passes, and no turnovers.
Meanwhile, McCarthy is progressing in his recovery and has already shed the walking boot, though O’Connell emphasized that being cleared physically is only part of what he expects before returning McCarthy to the starting position.
The situation places McCarthy at a crossroads: not only must he heal, but he’ll need to demonstrate readiness in mobility, practice reps, and consistency if he hopes to resume the QB1 job. Until then, Wentz will be relied upon to pilot the Vikings’ offense through a challenging stretch.
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