Three days before Adam Thielen’s return, the Minnesota Vikings signed Carson Wentz, a Bismarck, North Dakota native and lifelong Vikings fan, as their backup quarterback. Speaking to Twin Cities media on Thursday, Wentz, entering his 10th NFL season, called joining his childhood team surreal.
“It’s exciting to join a team I’ve respected since entering the NFL and cheered for as a kid,” Wentz said. “Seeing the jerseys of players I idolized growing up is unreal.”
The NFL moves fast. In April, the Vikings traded for Sam Howell to back up J.J. McCarthy, but Howell struggled in training camp and didn’t fit Kevin O’Connell’s system. The team traded Howell to the Eagles and signed Wentz, a free agent after his one-year stint with the Kansas City Chiefs. Wentz spent the offseason staying in shape, waiting for the right opportunity.
“It came together quickly,” Wentz said. “I was at home through camp, waiting for the right fit. When they called, I was thrilled to contribute. It’s better than sitting on the couch.”
Drafted second overall by the Eagles in 2016 after starring at North Dakota State, Wentz threw 33 touchdowns in 13 games in his second season before an injury. Nick Foles led the Eagles to a Super Bowl, while Wentz earned All-Pro honors and third in MVP voting. He played well in 2018 and 2019, but struggles in 2020 ended his time as Philadelphia’s starter.
Since then, Wentz has been a journeyman, starting 17 games for the Colts in 2021, a few for Washington in 2022, and serving as a backup for the Rams in 2023 and Chiefs in 2024. Now with his sixth team in six years, Wentz is learning Minnesota’s offense. Familiarity with the Rams’ system and past connections with QB coach Josh McCown and teammates Ryan Kelly and Will Fries help.
“Learning a new playbook is tough,” Wentz said. “I’ve had a new one every year. There’s overlap with past systems, but it’s still new. The team, coaches, and even Max [Brosmer] and J.J. have been great. I’m getting there.”
At 32, Wentz backs up the 22-year-old McCarthy, whom he’s eager to support. “I’m excited to help J.J.,” Wentz said. “He’s young, dealing with a lot, but it’s cool to see him lead, especially as a captain.”
Wentz’s career has seen highs, like his All-Pro season, and lows, leading him to rely on mental toughness as a backup. O’Connell praised Wentz’s intelligence and experience. “He’s picking things up fast, and his background will help J.J. and Max in the quarterback room,” O’Connell said.
Source: SI.com
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