Vikings turn to Carson Wentz as J.J. McCarthy set to miss time, eyeing Week 7 return against Eagles
The Minnesota Vikings are turning to veteran quarterback Carson Wentz for their upcoming Week 3 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals, following the injury setback of second-year quarterback J.J. McCarthy. McCarthy sustained a high-ankle sprain during the Vikings’ Week 2 victory over the Atlanta Falcons, an injury that kept him off the practice field entirely this week. As a result, he has officially been ruled out for the game.
J.J. McCarthy’s Injury Status
Despite the severity of his injury, McCarthy managed to avoid being placed on injured reserve, which would have mandated a minimum four-game absence. As reported, the young quarterback is expected to travel with the team for their next two games abroad, with a hopeful return slated for the Week 7 contest against the Philadelphia Eagles. There is a glimmer of optimism that if McCarthy feels sufficiently recovered sooner, he could rejoin the lineup ahead of schedule.
CBS Sports’ Tracy Wolfson provided insight into McCarthy’s recovery plan, stating, “J.J. McCarthy (high ankle sprain) didn’t go on IR because he would’ve had to miss four games. He will be in Europe with the team the next two weeks and rehab there. Expectation is he gets the bye week after to recover and then returns vs. Eagles. Timeline can be moved up if he feels good though.”
The Bye Week Advantage
The Vikings benefit from a bye week in Week 6, giving McCarthy an additional window to recuperate without impacting his availability for the team’s schedule. This strategic break could prove invaluable as the franchise aims to maintain their momentum in a competitive landscape.
McCarthy’s Performance So Far
Looking at McCarthy’s performance this season, it’s been a challenging start for the Michigan product. Aside from a remarkable fourth quarter against the Chicago Bears in Week 1, his first two outings have been inconsistent. Currently, he holds a completion percentage of just 58.5%, with 301 passing yards, two touchdowns, and three interceptions. He has also contributed 50 rushing yards and one touchdown.
Given that this season is effectively McCarthy’s rookie year—following a knee injury that sidelined him for the entirety of 2024—some struggles were to be anticipated.
As the Vikings look to make a significant push this season, the next few games will be crucial. Wentz, stepping into the role of starting quarterback, will need to navigate the challenges ahead while McCarthy works towards a return. The stage is set for a pivotal moment in the Vikings’ season, as they aim to align their quarterback situation for success.
