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6d ago

Vikings Tap Carson Wentz for London Start as J.J. McCarthy Enters Next Rehab Phase

Minnesota is prioritizing a full practice week for J.J. McCarthy before any return.

The Vikings' decision to part ways with Sam Darnold and pivot J.J. McCarthy has come under scrutiny by several NFL executives.
J.J. McCarthy #9 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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CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - SEPTEMBER 08: J.J. McCarthy #9 of the Minnesota Vikings warms up before the game against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on September 08, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)

Overview

  • Head coach Kevin O’Connell said McCarthy has moved into a more active stage of high-ankle rehab and will not be rushed, with a full week of practice required before he plays.
  • Carson Wentz is set for a third straight start against the Browns in London after going 1-1 and completing 66.7% of his passes for 523 yards, four touchdowns and two interceptions in Weeks 3–4.
  • Right tackle Brian O’Neill is week-to-week with an MCL sprain but will avoid surgery and IR, while center Ryan Kelly remains in concussion protocol and guard Donovan Jackson is out following wrist surgery.
  • Minnesota’s battered line has produced a 13.95% sack rate on dropbacks, and additional issues this week include linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel not practicing and center Michael Jurgens missing time with a hamstring injury.
  • With a Week 6 bye, a post-bye Week 7 return versus the Eagles is a potential target for McCarthy, and ESPN’s Dan Graziano has identified Wentz as a possible trade candidate ahead of the November 4 deadline.