Story by
Vikings Turn to Carson Wentz Again as Kyler Murray’s Hamstring Forces a QB Change
- Story by
- Vikings Turn to Carson Wentz Again as Kyler Murray’s Hamstring Forces a QB Change
Kevin O'Connell's Minnesota Vikings head into Week 9 at 6-1, yet the quarterback spot has been anything but steady for them. Kyler Murray signed a one-year deal in March and beat out former Vikings' QB J.J. McCarthy for the job in training camp, only to be knocked out of the opener against Green Bay by a concussion.
That opened the door for Carson Wentz, who came off the bench to help Minnesota win 39-22 and then started the next game in a 9-3 win against Chicago.
Advertisement
Across the two outings, the quarterback went 23-of-39 for 276 yards and three touchdowns with no interceptions, a contribution O'Connell called a "major, major role" in two wins over quality opponents.
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Carson Wentz.Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images via Reuters Connect
Murray took the job back in Week 3, and McCarthy was later traded to the New York Giants for a 2027 fifth-round pick. The production hasn't jumped, though, as Murray has thrown for 1,022 yards, five touchdowns and three interceptions, while the Vikings sit 27th in scoring and 29th in total offense.
Advertisement
Then came the 19-15 loss to the Detroit Lions, the first defeat of the season for Minnesota, in which Murray looked bothered by his hamstring toward the end.
He still made it to the final whistle, but an exam this week confirmed a strain, and on Thursday O'Connell said the one-year signee will be reassessed week to week.
That puts Wentz in as the starter for Monday night against the Bills, per team's statement . The team isn't looking to rush Murray back, considering his style of play and the chance of a minor problem growing into "a more significant injury."
Advertisement
Injured reserve isn't part of the conversation, and the plan is still for him to take the starting job back once he's healthy. Max Brosmer will back up Wentz in the meantime.
The Buffalo Bills also arrive at 6-1, so the quarterback who already helped the Vikings through one stretch of turbulence will have to do it again against one of the top teams in the AFC.
The Vikings host the Bills at U.S. Bank Stadium on Monday at 8:15 p.m. ET on ESPN.
Advertisement
Minnesota Vikings Essentials
More on the Minnesota Vikings
This story was originally published by Athlon on Nov 5, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
