Overview

• O’Connell confirmed McCarthy has been ruled out for Sunday’s game in Dublin against the Steelers, giving Wentz another start.
• In his first start for Minnesota, Wentz went 14-of-20 for 173 yards with two touchdowns and no turnovers in a 48-10 win over the Bengals.
• The staff plans to reassess the position weekly, emphasizing that McCarthy will not return until fully prepared to execute the offense.
• Coaches said McCarthy spent the game engaged with Wentz and quarterbacks coach Josh McCown, using the outing as a live teaching tool on rhythm and decision-making.
• Early-season analytics flagged McCarthy’s long clean-pocket time to throw and high pressure responsibility, offering specific focus areas as he recovers.