Wentz Undergoes Season-Ending Surgery
Carson Wentz’s tenure with the Minnesota Vikings has been abruptly cut short due to a serious left shoulder injury. The team announced that Wentz will undergo season-ending surgery, following an injury sustained on October 5. The quarterback was filling in for J.J. McCarthy, who is expected to return to the starting lineup for the upcoming game against the Detroit Lions.
Injury Details and Impact on the Vikings
At 32 years old, Wentz faced considerable challenges during his brief time with the Vikings. He made history by starting for a sixth different NFL team this season. Wentz joined the Vikings on August 24 after Sam Howell was traded and stepped in as a starter in Week 3 due to McCarthy’s high ankle sprain. In five games, Wentz achieved a 2-3 record.
- Injury Timeline:
- Injury Date: October 5
- First Start: Week 3 against the Chargers
- Last Start: Week 7 against the Eagles
The injury occurred during the Vikings’ Week 5 game against the Cleveland Browns in London. After taking multiple hits, including a hard tackle, Wentz completed the game despite discomfort. He led a crucial drive in the second half, but further pain necessitated the decision for surgery.
Quarterback Depth after Surgery
With Wentz placed on injured reserve, the Vikings currently have only one active quarterback, rookie Max Brosmer. Earlier this season, the team briefly signed Desmond Ridder, while Brett Rypien, last year’s third-string quarterback, is now on the Colts’ practice squad. The coaching staff is likely to lean on Brosmer as McCarthy’s backup for the remainder of the season.
Coach and Team Responses
Following last Thursday’s 37-10 defeat against the Los Angeles Chargers, Wentz expressed feelings of intense pain during the game, acknowledging it as possibly the worst he had experienced in his career. Coach Kevin O’Connell noted the challenges of handling Wentz’s injury during the game but ultimately decided to keep him in until it was evident the outcome was beyond reach.
- Statistics from Last Game:
- Completions: 15
- Attempts: 27
- Yards: 144
- Touchdowns: 1
- Interceptions: 1
- Sacks: 5
With Wentz’s surgery on the horizon, the Vikings hope to navigate the remainder of the season while leveraging McCarthy’s return. The team has also made adjustments to the roster, signing tight end Ben Sims after losing veteran Josh Oliver to injury.
As the Vikings regroup, all eyes will remain on McCarthy’s readiness to lead the team and how they manage their quarterback situation following Wentz’s season-ending surgery.
