Posted on Oct 29

Vikings' McCarthy returns from injury as Wentz faces season-ending surgery

Posted Oct 29, 2025

The Minnesota Vikings are poised for a pivotal moment as quarterback J.J. McCarthy returns from injury, marking a critical juncture in the team's season.

Why it matters: McCarthy's return is vital for the Vikings as they navigate a challenging season that has seen injuries significantly impact their roster.

With backup Carson Wentz undergoing season-ending shoulder surgery, McCarthy's presence becomes even more crucial.
His recovery allows the Vikings to maintain continuity at the quarterback position during a pivotal stretch of games.

What’s new: For the first time since September 14, McCarthy took all first-team reps in practice.

This marks a significant step in his recovery from a high right ankle sprain, which had sidelined him for three weeks due to swelling.
In limited practice sessions leading up to this week, McCarthy expressed optimism about regaining his mobility and effectiveness on the field.

By the numbers: McCarthy's performance metrics have raised concerns, especially given that he ranked second-to-last in NFL QBR at 20.3 prior to his injury.

His struggles in the early part of the season reflect not only personal challenges but also broader issues within the Vikings' offensive scheme, which relies heavily on precise timing and decision-making.

Yes, but: While McCarthy's return offers hope, the Vikings must manage expectations.

Head coach Kevin O'Connell emphasized that while perfection isn't necessary, a clear grasp of fundamentals and progressions is essential for McCarthy to succeed.
The pressure for McCarthy to perform well is compounded by his missed opportunities, having sat out 23 of his first 25 NFL games, including playoffs, due to injury.

What to watch: As McCarthy steps back into the starter role, eyes will be on how effectively he can integrate with the offense, particularly with rookie quarterback Max Brosmer serving as his backup and John Wolford now added to the mix.

The coaching staff's ability to adjust their play-calling to accommodate McCarthy's strengths and address the weaknesses shown earlier in the season will be critical.

The bottom line: McCarthy's readiness signals a potential turning point for the Vikings, who hope to re-establish themselves in a competitive NFC landscape.

A successful return could rejuvenate the team's playoff aspirations, contingent upon McCarthy's ability to stay healthy and deliver consistent performances under pressure.

Vikings' McCarthy returns from injury as Wentz faces season-ending surgery

Alex Parker

Posted Oct 29, 2025

The Minnesota Vikings are poised for a pivotal moment as quarterback J.J. McCarthy returns from injury, marking a critical juncture in the team's season.

Why it matters: McCarthy's return is vital for the Vikings as they navigate a challenging season that has seen injuries significantly impact their roster.

With backup Carson Wentz undergoing season-ending shoulder surgery, McCarthy's presence becomes even more crucial.

His recovery allows the Vikings to maintain continuity at the quarterback position during a pivotal stretch of games.

What’s new: For the first time since September 14, McCarthy took all first-team reps in practice.

This marks a significant step in his recovery from a high right ankle sprain, which had sidelined him for three weeks due to swelling.

In limited practice sessions leading up to this week, McCarthy expressed optimism about regaining his mobility and effectiveness on the field.

By the numbers: McCarthy's performance metrics have raised concerns, especially given that he ranked second-to-last in NFL QBR at 20.3 prior to his injury.

His struggles in the early part of the season reflect not only personal challenges but also broader issues within the Vikings' offensive scheme, which relies heavily on precise timing and decision-making.

Yes, but: While McCarthy's return offers hope, the Vikings must manage expectations.

Head coach Kevin O'Connell emphasized that while perfection isn't necessary, a clear grasp of fundamentals and progressions is essential for McCarthy to succeed.

The pressure for McCarthy to perform well is compounded by his missed opportunities, having sat out 23 of his first 25 NFL games, including playoffs, due to injury.

The coaching staff's ability to adjust their play-calling to accommodate McCarthy's strengths and address the weaknesses shown earlier in the season will be critical.

The bottom line: McCarthy's readiness signals a potential turning point for the Vikings, who hope to re-establish themselves in a competitive NFC landscape.

A successful return could rejuvenate the team's playoff aspirations, contingent upon McCarthy's ability to stay healthy and deliver consistent performances under pressure.