J.J. McCarthy Falls to Third on Vikings Depth Chart Behind Carson Wentz

J.J. McCarthy has dropped to 3rd on the Minnesota Vikings’ quarterback depth chart, with Carson Wentz taking up because the crew’s backup behind starter Kyler Murray.

J. J. McCarthy Drops to Third

Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell introduced the change Wednesday, saying Wentz will deal with the backup position for Sunday’s season opener. McCarthy, the crew’s 2024 first-round choose, will now be the third-string quarterback.

O’Connell made it clear that the choice just isn’t essentially everlasting. According to USA Today, the Vikings will assessment the backup job from week to week because the season strikes ahead.

“This gives us the best chance to win this Sunday,” O’Connell instructed reporters.

Wentz’s expertise performed a serious half within the resolution. The veteran quarterback has almost 100 profession begins and already is aware of the Vikings’ system after spending final season in Minnesota.

He began 5 video games final 12 months when McCarthy was coping with an harm. Wentz accomplished 65.1% of his passes throughout that stretch, throwing for 1,216 yards, six touchdowns and 5 interceptions.

His season ended with shoulder surgical procedure, however he returned to Minnesota for one more season and has now earned the backup position forward of McCarthy.

J.J. McCarthy Faces Tough Vikings Setback

O’Connell mentioned Wentz’s expertise is particularly beneficial for a backup quarterback whereas the crew works to get Murray snug because the starter.

The newest transfer is one other setback for McCarthy. The 2024 No. 10 total choose misplaced the beginning job to Murray throughout coaching camp. He additionally missed the Vikings’ preseason finale due to an ankle harm.

McCarthy had a troublesome first season as a starter in 2025. He performed 10 video games and completed with 1,632 passing yards, 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions, NY Post reported. His rookie season was worn out after he suffered a torn meniscus.

Even with McCarthy now third on the depth chart, O’Connell continues to talk positively about his younger quarterback.

The coach has pointed to McCarthy’s enchancment and mentioned he’s nonetheless creating with extra work every day.

McCarthy has additionally remained assured in his potential to develop into a beginning quarterback. He beforehand mentioned he nonetheless believes he’s able to holding that position and plans to remain prepared for his subsequent probability.