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3h ago

Vikings Set to Start Carson Wentz in Europe as O’Connell Delays J.J. McCarthy’s Return

O’Connell says McCarthy will not be considered until he is healthy with a full week of practice.

J.J. McCarthy of the Minnesota Vikings looks on after the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at U.S. Bank Stadium on September 21, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
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Overview

  • J.J. McCarthy has been ruled out for Week 4 in Dublin, where Carson Wentz will start against the Steelers.
  • Kevin O’Connell called specific return timelines for McCarthy inaccurate and stressed practice readiness as a prerequisite to playing.
  • ESPN reporting indicates Minnesota is comfortable starting Wentz for at least one, and possibly two, more games during the Europe trip before the bye.
  • In his Week 3 start, Wentz went 14-of-20 for 173 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions as the defense, led by Isaiah Rodgers’ two scores, dominated the Bengals.
  • Early-season metrics show McCarthy holding the ball too long and bearing a high share of pressure-related sacks, with coaches highlighting the value of him observing Wentz’s rhythm and progression work while traveling with the team.