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Vikings Name Carson Wentz Week 8 Starter With J.J. McCarthy Not Ready on Short Week

O'Connell says the priority is safeguarding McCarthy’s recovery before revisiting the quarterback plan.

Overview

  • Kevin O’Connell confirmed Wentz will start Thursday against the Chargers, with Max Brosmer as the backup and J.J. McCarthy designated the emergency No. 3.
  • The team put McCarthy through an on-field workout Tuesday and determined he is “just not there” for a short-week return.
  • O’Connell noted a Sunday kickoff might have given McCarthy a chance, aligning with reports that point to Week 9 at Detroit as a realistic target.
  • Minnesota will not make a long-term quarterback decision until McCarthy is fully healthy, consistent with the organization’s development-first approach.
  • Wentz continues to play through a left, non-throwing shoulder injury that has required a harness but is not expected to sideline him.