Vikings QB Wentz Exits Game with Shoulder Injury, Backup McCarthy Steps In

On October 5th, 2025, the Minnesota Vikings faced a significant setback as their starting quarterback, Carson Wentz, suffered a left shoulder injury during their Week 1 matchup against the Cleveland Browns. Wentz, who had performed well in his first two starts for the Vikings, scrambled late in the second quarter in an attempt to gain a first down. However, he was unable to finish the half, instead heading to the locker room for further examination.

The Vikings were already dealing with quarterback issues, as their backup, J.J. McCarthy, was sidelined with a right high ankle sprain. This meant that the team was forced to rely on Wentz, the veteran quarterback signed in the offseason, to lead the offense. Wentz's injury raised concerns about the Vikings' quarterback situation, with former NFL linebacker Jonathan Vilma criticizing Wentz's decision-making, stating that he should have gone down to avoid the hit.

Wentz was initially listed as questionable to return, but he did make it back to the field in the third quarter, wearing a pad around his left shoulder. The Vikings will be closely monitoring Wentz's condition as they prepare for their next game, with the backup McCarthy's status also in question due to his own injury.