When J.J. McCarthy, the 22‑year‑old redshirt rookie selected 10th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, stepped onto the field for his first practice of the season on Monday, October 13, 2025, the Minnesota Vikings knew the next few weeks would feel like a high‑stakes chess match.
Head coach Kevin O'Connell kept it simple: “J.J. got some work today, and he’ll get more this week. We’ll see how it goes next week,” he told reporters, a quote that echoed through the TCO Performance Center in Eagan, Minnesota. The sentiment was clear—McCarthy’s ankle was still healing, but the quarterback’s footwork and lower‑body mechanics needed real‑world reps before the coaching staff could trust him to lead the offense.
Injury Timeline and Return to Practice
McCarthy’s setback began on September 15, 2025, during the Vikings’ Week 2 Sunday Night Football loss to the Atlanta Falcons. A high‑ankle sprain landed him on the sidelines for three consecutive weeks, a blow that also forced veteran backup Carson Wentz into the starter’s chair.
While McCarthy was hobbling, Wentz kept Minnesota afloat, pulling off two wins in three starts—including a dramatic comeback over the Cleveland Browns on October 12. That victory, however, came at a price: Wentz left the field with a sore left (non‑throwing) shoulder, a condition the team treated as “pretty sore,” according to O'Connell after the Vikings returned from their international stint in London and Ireland.
During the bye week that followed the overseas games, the Vikings’ medical staff focused on two things for McCarthy: draining the swelling in his ankle and rebuilding his planting‑and‑firing rhythm. The process, as described by The Athletic’s Alec Lewis, was less about pain relief and more about “building that foundation back up.”
Quarterback Quandary: McCarthy vs. Wentz
Wentz, 32, landed in Minnesota after a free‑agency exodus that saw Sam Darnold, Daniel Jones, and Nick Mullens depart. The veteran’s presence gave the Vikings a safety net, but his shoulder injury throws a wrench into the equation. On October 20, the team scheduled Wentz to start his fourth straight game against the Philadelphia Eagles at US Bank Stadium.
Insiders from ESPN—Jeremy Fowler and Dan Graziano—have been chewing on the idea that Wentz could retain the job if he “catches fire” in the coming weeks. Their theory isn’t without merit; the Vikings are 3‑2 after six games, and a hot hand can tilt a season. Yet O'Connell repeatedly emphasizes the long‑term plan: “We’re focused on J.J.’s development, not just the next win.”
Complicating the mix, Minnesota added Desmond Ridder to the depth chart while naming Max Brosmer the No. 2 quarterback behind Wentz for Week 7. The roster shuffle shows the organization is hedging its bets, keeping options open while McCarthy regains confidence.
Coaching Perspective and Development Focus
When asked about the quarterback carousel, O'Connell painted a picture of patience. “J.J. needs to be able to repeatedly plant and fire at a high level,” he said, echoing a mantra repeated at every practice. The coach’s mantra reflects a broader trend in the NFL: teams are less willing to rush a rookie back from injury if it means compromising mechanics.
McCarthy himself admitted on October 17 that he wasn’t “100 % yet,” a candidness that didn't surprise O'Connell, who has watched the rookie’s rehab regimen close‑up. The quarterback’s energy in meetings remained high; he was described as “fully engaged with great enthusiasm” by the Vikings’ staff, a sign that his mental preparation is marching forward, even if his ankle lags behind.
Implications for Minnesota’s Playoff Push
The Vikings sit in a precarious spot. A third‑place finish in the NFC North would likely demand a playoff berth, but the path is littered with injuries. If Wentz’s shoulder improves and he continues to win, the coaching staff faces a dilemma: keep the veteran for short‑term stability or hand the reins to the highly touted rookie who missed his entire 2024 season due to meniscus surgery.
Analysts from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport argue that the Vikings “appear more focused on McCarthy’s development” than on a quick decision. Still, the NFL is a results‑driven league, and the pressure from fans and media may force O'Connell to make a call sooner rather than later.
What Comes Next for the Vikings?
Looking ahead, the next few weeks will be a litmus test. If McCarthy shows marked improvement in footwork and can stay healthy, O'Connell may hand him the starter’s hat for the Week 9 matchup. Conversely, a strong performance from Wentz against Philadelphia could solidify his spot at least until the season’s second half.
Regardless of the outcome, Minnesota’s front office will likely evaluate the quarterback situation in the offseason. With the salary cap looming and the draft approaching, the team must decide whether to double‑down on McCarthy as the franchise quarterback or seek another veteran bridge player.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does McCarthy's return affect the Vikings' quarterback depth?
McCarthy’s practice start adds a fresh, long‑term option to the depth chart, but his limited physical readiness means the Vikings still rely on Wentz and the newly signed Desmond Ridder for immediate game‑time needs. The trio gives Minnesota flexibility, though the coaching staff must decide who gets the snap when the season intensifies.
What is the status of Carson Wentz's shoulder injury?
Wentz’s left shoulder is described as “pretty sore” after the Cleveland win. Team physicians have placed him in a light‑throwing program, allowing him to start but limiting full contact. If his soreness persists, the Vikings may consider limiting his snap count or reverting to a rotation with Ridder.
When could the Vikings decide on a permanent starter?
Most analysts expect a decision by mid‑November, after the Vikings have faced a mix of division rivals and playoff‑contending teams. A strong performance by either quarterback in the next two games could tip the scale, prompting O'Connell to announce his choice before the final stretch.
How have the Vikings performed so far in the 2025 season?
Minnesota entered Week 6 with a 3‑2 record, highlighted by a comeback win over Cleveland and a narrow loss to Atlanta. Their offense has swung between explosive drives and stagnant stretches, largely depending on which quarterback is under center.
What impact could this quarterback situation have on Minnesota's playoff chances?
Stability at quarterback is crucial for a playoff push. If Wentz stays healthy and continues to win, Minnesota could secure a wild‑card spot. However, a fully recovered McCarthy brings a higher ceiling and could energize the offense for a deeper run, provided the transition doesn’t disrupt the team’s rhythm.
