Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy is unlikely to play in Week 3 against the Cincinnati Bengals due to an ankle sprain suffered in Week 2. Head coach Kevin O'Connell confirmed the news, stating that McCarthy's injury is expected to sideline him for several weeks. While the team isn't placing him on injured reserve, O'Connell emphasized that the decision is purely due to the severity of the ankle sprain and not related to McCarthy's performance. ESPN's Adam Schefter is reporting a potential two-to-four-week absence for the young quarterback.
With McCarthy sidelined, veteran quarterback Carson Wentz is set to take the helm for the Vikings. O'Connell expressed confidence in Wentz's readiness, citing a strong practice performance last week. He also highlighted Max Brosmer as a backup option. The team's medical staff determined that McCarthy's injury, possibly sustained on a scramble during Sunday's game against the Falcons, worsened after the initial adrenaline subsided. McCarthy displayed remarkable toughness playing through the pain before ultimately leaving the game.
McCarthy's statistics in the first two games were a mixed bag. He completed 24 of 41 passes for 301 yards, with two touchdowns and three interceptions. His rushing performance included 50 yards and one touchdown, but he also suffered six sacks and a fumble. Wentz, meanwhile, spent last season with the Kansas City Chiefs, making three appearances, including one start at the end of the year.
This will be Wentz's first meaningful start since 2022 with the Washington Commanders. While he's had previous starts for the Los Angeles Rams and Kansas City Chiefs, those occurred in Week 18 games after playoff berths had already been secured. The Vikings will look to Wentz's experience to guide them to victory in Week 3 and beyond while they await McCarthy's return.
---
Originally published at: https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/j-j-mccarthy-unlikely-to-play-week-3-with-ankle-sprain-carson-wentz-to-start
