Carson Wentz’s Season Ends with Shoulder Surgery for Vikings

EAGAN, Minn. — Carson Wentz’s time as the Minnesota Vikings quarterback has come to an end. The team placed Wentz on injured reserve Monday, confirming he will undergo season-ending surgery on his left shoulder. Wentz originally injured his shoulder on October 5 while playing against the Cleveland Browns in London.

Wentz stepped in as the starter after J.J. McCarthy suffered a high ankle sprain. Over five starts, Wentz led the Vikings to a 2-3 record, but faced significant pressure throughout his games. Coach Kevin O’Connell indicated that Wentz was never taken out of games until they were no longer winnable.

“Carson’s a veteran player,” O’Connell said. “He understands some of our circumstances, and it’s difficult to put a rookie in that situation.”

In the last two games, Wentz’s performance deteriorated as he wore a bulky harness to protect the injured shoulder. During the Vikings’ 37-10 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers on October 23, it was clear that Wentz was in pain. He completed 15 of 27 passes for 144 yards while being sacked five times.

After the game, Wentz expressed how difficult it was to play through the injury. “The pain is pain,” he said. “I felt like I could still help this team.” His effort ultimately led to further complications, prompting the team to reassess his role and health.

Wentz signed with the Vikings shortly before the season started, aimed to serve as a backup before being thrust into the starting role. With his departure, McCarthy is expected to return as the starter when the Vikings face the Detroit Lions this weekend.

The Vikings filled Wentz’s roster spot by signing tight end Ben Sims, who was waived by the Green Bay Packers earlier this season.