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Vikings Hand QB Reins Back to J.J. McCarthy for Week 9 as Wentz Heads to Surgery

Minnesota turns the page to evaluate its 2024 first-rounder after Carson Wentz’s left-shoulder injury ends his season.

Overview

  • J.J. McCarthy took all first-team reps on Wednesday and said his ankle feels “amazing,” with coach Kevin O’Connell confirming he will start Sunday at Detroit.
  • Carson Wentz was placed on injured reserve and will have season-ending surgery on a torn labrum in his left shoulder, with a recovery timeline of about four months.
  • Undrafted rookie Max Brosmer is set as the No. 2 quarterback, and veteran John Wolford joined the practice squad to provide emergency depth after working previously with O’Connell in Los Angeles.
  • O’Connell and McCarthy reviewed the young QB’s early starts to refocus on fundamentals, a reset for a player who has missed 23 of his first 25 NFL games and ranked near the bottom in QBR before the injury.
  • Justin Jefferson said McCarthy “looks good” and has the confidence to lead the offense, while Lions edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson said he is excited to face his former Michigan teammate.