Carson Wentz Breaks Silence After Joining Vikings Amid Lingering Question
The Minnesota Vikings introduced Carson Wentz to the local media on Thursday, and the veteran quarterback made his sentiments about joining his “hometown” team quite clear.
Wentz was born in North Carolina, and he went to high school and attended college in North Dakota. That latter part is key, with many in the area claiming Vikings fandom without an in-state team to cheer for.
Wentz is among that group.
Carson Wentz Reflects Fondly on Childhood Vikings Fandom
“You walk down the halls, and see [pictures of] all the guys you grew up cheering for,” Wentz told reporters, per Star Tribune’s Ben Goessling on August 28. “It’s definitely cool to be back.”
Wentz called the entire situation “a whirlwind,” per Purple Insider’s Matthew Coller.
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Wentz, 32, arrives after spending the 2024 season with the Kansas City Chiefs following stints with the Indianapolis Colts and Washington Commanders. He was the No. 2 overall pick of the 2016 draft by the Philadelphia Eagles.
The Vikings brought Wentz in to address their backup quarterback concerns behind starter J.J. McCarthy, a first-round pick in 2024 who missed his rookie season with a torn meniscus.
However, Wentz did not address why he was available at this point in the offseason.
“Wentz said he didn’t want to talk details of why he didn’t sign with a team this spring, or during camp, but said he was very confident that he would get a job this season,” ESPN’s Kevin Seifert reported on X on August 28.
At any rate, the Vikings are surely happy that Wentz was available to them, with the 2025 regular season starting for Minnesota in just over one week against the Chicago Bears.
Vikings HC Kevon O’Connell Endorses Carson Wentz
Wentz’s arrival is a clear endorsement from Vikings general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, but even more from head coach Kevin O’Connell, who has been supportive of McCarthy and the team’s other passers this offseason.
Still, O’Connell spoke highly of Wentz during his presser alongside Adofo-Mensah.
“Carson is a guy who has played a lot of football, O’Connell said, per KVRR’s Ryan Rowlin on X on August 28. “He’s been exposed to some really good systems.
Wentz notably played for the Los Angeles Rams under O’Connell’s former boss, head coach Sean McVay. O’Connell was McVay’s offensive coordinator during the Rams’ Super Bowl run in 2021, taking his post as the Vikings’ HC the ensuing offseason.
Wentz, who has earned $131.9 million in his career, is on a minimum contract.
If all goes well, Wentz will not see the field for the Vikings this season, and not just because of McCarthy, but also rookie undrafted free agent Max Brosmer.
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Wentz, who is 47-46-1 as a starter, is a true dart throw for the Vikings, joining the team at such a late stage. Still, O’Connell believes “the experience of a guy who was drafted high and had a lot of success throughout his career, it bodes well for J.J. and Max.”
Brosmer beat out veterans Brett Rypien and Sam Howell for a roster spot.
Both Brosmer and Wentz will operate behind McCarthy, on whom the Vikings’ present and future hinge.
Patriots Shock: Insider Reveals Startling Update on Injured Rookie FB
The New England Patriots are sending shockwaves through their fanbase as an insider drops a major update on their injured rookie fullback, a player many expected to make an immediate impact this season. Sources close to the team suggest the situation is more serious than initially reported, leaving fans and analysts scrambling to understand the full implications for the Patriots’ backfield and offensive schemes.
The rookie, who burst onto the scene with impressive preseason performances, had been pegged as a key weapon in short-yardage and goal-line situations, and early concerns about his injury now have the organization weighing multiple contingency plans. Patriots coaching staff and medical teams are reportedly in constant discussions, attempting to balance the player’s long-term health with the team’s immediate needs.
While the team remains tight-lipped publicly, the insider’s revelation has stirred debate across NFL circles. Some analysts argue that the Patriots might rethink their offensive strategies, potentially leaning more on veteran backs and tight ends if the rookie’s recovery timeline extends further than expected. Others speculate that a quick return could make him a breakout star, one whose impact will define the Patriots’ early-season success.
Fans are now closely monitoring every practice report, social media update, and insider tip, with the rookie’s health becoming a flashpoint for both optimism and concern. With New England aiming to compete at the highest level, this update could reshape expectations and force rapid strategic adjustments.
The situation also raises questions about the Patriots’ depth and resilience, testing the team’s ability to adapt when key young talent faces setbacks. One thing is certain: all eyes are on the organization as they navigate this unexpected twist, with implications that could ripple through the season.
