Vikings Turn to Wentz as Starter Against Bears

The Minnesota Vikings are once again dealing with quarterback issues. Carson Wentz will be starting this Sunday against the Chicago Bears due to Kyler Murray still being in the concussion protocol and J.J. McCarthy sitting at the bottom of the depth chart.

Coach Kevin O’Connell informed the media that Murray, who sustained a concussion in the season opener against the Green Bay Packers, is still recovering. So, it’s officially Wentz’s time again.

It’s worth noting that Wentz had previously started for the Vikings last season, filling in for McCarthy while he dealt with an ankle injury. Wentz then got injured himself in Week 8, which allowed McCarthy to return to the lineup. Now, however, Wentz is back in the spotlight, having moved up from No. 3 quarterback during training camp to No. 2 before last week’s opener, and now, of course, to starting against the Bears.

Meanwhile, McCarthy remains on the sidelines, even though he was contending for the starting position against Murray. This situation indicates that the Vikings have faith in Wentz’s experience—and maybe even his edge in skills—over McCarthy, especially since Wentz is starting ahead of a healthy McCarthy this weekend.

Wentz showcased his capabilities in the opener after Murray had to leave the game due to a concussion. At that time, the Vikings were down 9-0, and Wentz managed to throw two touchdown passes and complete 12 of 19 passes for 133 yards, leading the team to a comeback victory over the Packers.

O’Connell appears reluctant to bench Wentz after he played a pivotal role in that win. But what happens if Wentz performs well again? Say he even beats the Bears. Would O’Connell really consider replacing him if Murray is ready to return in Week 3? It’s a tricky situation. Interestingly, this marks the 11th time O’Connell has changed quarterbacks during a season in his five-year coaching career. Many of those changes were due to injuries to starters, similar to what they’re facing now.

In the previous season, McCarthy started the first two games before getting injured, which sidelined him for five games while Wentz took over. If Wentz can continue to deliver strong performances, one has to wonder: will Murray reclaim his starting spot once he’s healthy?