The Minnesota Vikings will be without J.J. McCarthy once again in Week 7, which means that Carson Wentz will be under center against his former team, the Philadelphia Eagles. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport broke the news on Friday.
Wentz’s journey back to facing the Eagles stems from a rocky exit that still resonates in league circles. Selected second overall by Philadelphia in the 2016 draft, he enjoyed early success in Philly, including guiding the team to a strong position before an injury sidelined him during their 2017 Super Bowl run.
However, subsequent seasons brought struggles with health and consistency, culminating in a benching during the 2020 campaign in favor of Jalen Hurts, who remains the Eagles’ starter today. That decision led to Wentz’s trade to the Indianapolis Colts in 2021, marking the start of a nomadic career that has seen him suit up for five teams in as many years before landing in Minnesota.
The Vikings signed Wentz in late August 2025 as a backup to McCarthy, but circumstances thrust him into the starting role earlier this season. McCarthy’s ankle injury has kept him out, paving the way for Wentz to helm the offense against his old squad.
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In three starts for the Vikings this year, Wentz has thrown for 759 yards, five touchdowns, and two interceptions, showing flashes of his former prowess while adapting to Minnesota’s system.
Vikings fans hope Wentz delivers a statement win on Sunday.
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Featured image via Kirby Lee/Imagn Images
