Carson Wentz Set to Join Minnesota Vikings as Veteran Backup Quarterback in 2025
In a move aimed at strengthening their quarterback depth for the 2025 season, the Minnesota Vikings are set to sign veteran quarterback Carson Wentz as a backup to J.J. McCarthy. Wentz, who has played for several NFL teams during his career, is expected to bring much-needed experience to the Vikings’ quarterback room. With McCarthy, the team’s presumed starter for 2025, still in the early stages of his career, adding a seasoned backup like Wentz provides Minnesota with security in case of injury or unforeseen circumstances.
Wentz, who was with the Los Angeles Rams in 2023, is familiar with Vikings’ head coach Kevin O’Connell’s offensive system, having worked together during O’Connell’s time with the Rams. This familiarity could ease the transition for Wentz, allowing him to contribute quickly if needed. His understanding of the system could also provide valuable insight to McCarthy, should the young quarterback need guidance during his first year as a starter.
One of the key reasons the Vikings were able to secure Wentz, despite the quarterback being without a team for most of 2024, is his willingness to accept a backup role. Unlike some other veterans who may have expected a starting opportunity, Wentz is reportedly open to the prospect of backing up McCarthy, which aligns with the Vikings’ plans. Minnesota’s front office was focused on finding a veteran who could be an effective mentor for McCarthy, without disrupting the younger quarterback’s development.
The decision to sign Wentz comes after the Vikings missed out on other potential veteran quarterbacks, including Sam Darnold, who signed with the Seattle Seahawks, and Daniel Jones, who ultimately chose the Indianapolis Colts. With options dwindling, Wentz emerged as a more realistic choice for the Vikings. Though his career has had its ups and downs, Wentz remains a highly experienced signal-caller with a track record of success, including leading the Philadelphia Eagles to the playoffs and winning a Super Bowl during the 2017 season, albeit without playing in the big game due to injury.
The timing of the signing is crucial, as the Vikings have been careful not to disrupt their potential compensatory draft picks for the 2026 NFL Draft. By waiting until after the 2025 NFL Draft, Minnesota can add a veteran quarterback without risking the loss of a crucial compensatory pick, which could be awarded to them at the end of Round 3. The team has been strategic about how they approach free-agent signings, understanding the importance of managing their long-term draft capital while ensuring depth at key positions.
With the addition of Carson Wentz, the Vikings now have a well-rounded quarterback room for 2025. McCarthy will have the opportunity to develop as the starter, with Wentz providing a reliable and experienced backup should the need arise. The move allows Minnesota to build around McCarthy’s potential while providing veteran leadership in a crucial position. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Wentz fits into the team’s overall plans, especially as the Vikings look to remain competitive in a tough NFC North division.
