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Vikings Name Carson Wentz Backup Quarterback, J.J. McCarthy as QB No. 3 for Week 1
Coach Kevin O'Connell will evaluate the backup quarterback position week-to-week, aiming to develop J.J. McCarthy while Carson Wentz serves as the primary backup.
- On Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2026, Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell announced that veteran Carson Wentz will serve as backup to starting quarterback Kyler Murray, relegating J.J. McCarthy to third string for Sunday's season opener against the Green Bay Packers.
- Although the Vikings drafted McCarthy with the 10th overall pick two years ago, a rookie season lost to injury and inconsistent play prompted the franchise to seek alternatives, subsequently signing Murray following his departure from the Arizona Cardinals.
- O'Connell noted that Wentz, with nearly 100 career starts, "gives us the best chance to win." Murray started five games last year, completing 68.3% of his passes for 962 yards, six touchdowns, and three interceptions.
- The head coach added that the backup arrangement is a "week-to-week" matter, not necessarily indicative of a season-long plan. The team carried four quarterbacks on the 53-man roster before moving Max Brosmer to the practice squad.
- Despite the demotion, O'Connell remains optimistic about the 23-year-old's development, calling McCarthy a "beacon of energy for this team." The organization intends to continue working with the young player as he navigates this career adjustment.
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Kevin O'Connell Leaves The Door Open For JJ McCarthy To Win The Backup QB Job
Carson Wentz might have won the Minnesota Vikings backup QB competition, but that doesn’t mean he would automatically be the next man up if Kyler Murray gets hurt at any point this season.Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell told reporters that they’re still evaluating the competition, and J.J. McCarthy has a chance to win the backup […]
·Las Vegas, United States
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Carson Wentz will be the backup for the Vikings. What does it mean for J.J. McCarthy?
The Minnesota Vikings will move forward with Kyler Murray as the starting quarterback, Carson Wentz as the backup quarterback, and J.J. McCarthy is the emergency quarterback.
·Saint Paul, United States
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Total News Sources12
Leaning Left4Leaning Right1Center5Last UpdatedBias Distribution50% Center
Bias Distribution
- 50% of the sources are Center
50% Center
L 40%
C 50%
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