Vikings 50-50 on long term QB

The Vikings return from their bye week with Carson Wentz taking over as starting quarterback against the Eagles — a matchup that pits the former Philadelphia first-round pick against his old team.

J.J. McCarthy, Minnesota’s 2024 first-rounder who opened the season as the starter, will serve as the emergency third quarterback while continuing to recover from a high ankle sprain suffered in Week 2.

Head coach Kevin O’Connell has faced constant questions about how the Vikings will handle their quarterback situation but has kept his focus on McCarthy’s recovery rather than making any firm declarations. With McCarthy still working his way back, there’s no urgency to name a long-term starter just yet.

Wentz, meanwhile, is also battling through an injury — a sprain to his non-throwing shoulder that requires a harness. Despite that, he’s been cleared to play and has performed well in relief, throwing for 759 yards, five touchdowns, and two interceptions across three starts, posting a passer rating above 100 in two of them.

Wentz joined Minnesota on a one-year deal in August after the Vikings traded Sam Howell to Philadelphia. His experience and leadership have been valuable while McCarthy heals and develops.

McCarthy returned to limited practice this week, about a month after his ankle injury — one that can take several weeks to fully recover depending on the player. During the bye, he worked closely with O’Connell and quarterbacks coach Josh McCown to regain form and speed up his return.

McCarthy’s early-season momentum was interrupted by several factors — including missing practice following the birth of his son and then the subsequent ankle injury — which has slowed his on-field development. Given that he missed his entire rookie year with a preseason knee issue, the Vikings are being cautious and methodical this time around.

O’Connell has emphasized the importance of building a strong foundation for young quarterbacks rather than rushing them back onto the field. For now, that philosophy means giving Wentz the reins until McCarthy is fully healthy and ready to compete again.

If Wentz continues to perform well and the Vikings win, it may not make sense to make an immediate change. Momentum matters, and teams often stick with a quarterback who’s delivering results.

So, as Week 7 arrives, Minnesota’s focus remains simple: get McCarthy back to 100%, continue his growth behind the scenes, and go out and win football games with Wentz leading the way.