Quarterback Carson Wentz will start again for the Vikings on Sunday in London against the Cleveland Browns, with J.J. McCarthy still sidelined by a high ankle sprain. The medical staff projected a four-to-six week recovery, and coach Kevin O’Connell has been clear that McCarthy won’t play until he’s had a full week of practice. To this point, he hasn’t returned in any capacity, not even on a limited basis.
That reality has led to some raised eyebrows around the league. A few have wondered whether Minnesota might be hiding behind McCarthy’s injury to buy more time after the first-year starter struggled in Week 2 against the Falcons. But O’Connell’s track record suggests otherwise. Since arriving in Minnesota, he’s been transparent, steady and consistent when it comes to injury updates, never the type to play games for a competitive advantage.
Which is why questions about McCarthy’s status cut against the equity O’Connell has built. He’s taken the Vikings to the playoffs, developed quarterbacks and showed leadership that’s earned him credibility.
For now, his focus is on capping a two-week European trip with a win over the Browns. And O’Connell has earned the benefit of the doubt that when McCarthy is ready, when he’s had a full week of practice and when he’s healthy, he’ll be the starter. I’ve been told by multiple sources that McCarthy isn’t healthy, and while the target return has been Week 7 against the Eagles, it could still be longer.
I’m told, “nothing to see here.”