Overview
- The Vikings confirmed that Kyler Murray suffered a concussion in Week 1 and was ruled out for the remainder of that game.
- Murray returned to limited practice this week and is moving through the NFL concussion protocol, giving him a chance to be cleared for Sunday if he continues to improve.
- If Murray is not cleared, multiple reports say veteran Carson Wentz is expected to start in Week 2 while J.J. McCarthy would serve as Wentz’s backup.
- Wentz’s relief performance in Week 1 — 133 passing yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions — and a strong connection with Justin Jefferson have boosted confidence in him as a short-term starter.
- McCarthy’s next in-game chance is now framed as pivotal for his long-term role after an uneven rookie season and limited preseason reps, a view echoed by former players and analysts who say the team may judge his future based on that performance.