Last week, the question was whether Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy would be No. 1 or No. 2 on the depth chart. This week, it’s fair to wonder whether he’s in a fight that will determine who’s No. 2 — and who’s No. 3.
McCarthy didn’t light it up in his first game since losing the starting job to Kyler Murray. In 17 snaps, McCarthy completed four of seven passes for 34 yards. He gained a yard on a busted play, taking a fairly solid hit as he was tackled.
McCarthy handled three drives, generating zero points. The first and last were three-and-outs. One ended with an off-target throw on third down. The other ended with a sack.
In contrast, Carson Wentz took 30 snaps. He completed nine of 14 passes for 81 yards and a touchdown. And, yes, Wentz got extra snaps after fourth-stringer Max Brosmer suffered an injury.
Still, Wentz was solid. He performed well after McCarthy was injured in Week 2 of the 2025 season, even though Wentz wasn’t signed until after the Vikings pulled the plug on both Sam Howell and Brett Rypien after the preseason ended. The Vikings could trust him again to be the understudy to the starter.
There continues to be a question swirling as to whether the Vikings will trade McCarthy. For now, no obvious trade partner exists. McCarthy’s performance from Saturday won’t make the phone ring off the hook.
Regardless, with McCarthy not winning the No. 1 spot in Minnesota, the next challenge is to hold on to No. 2.