The Minnesota Vikings announced the signing of quarterback Carson Wentz to a one-year deal on Thursday, days after adding Kyler Murray on a similar one-year contract.

Wentz joins as a backup option behind J.J. McCarthy, whom the Vikings selected 10th overall in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft.[1] McCarthy missed his entire rookie season after suffering a torn meniscus in his right knee during the preseason, requiring surgery.[2]

The additions provide competition and depth at the position. Murray and McCarthy are expected to vie for the starting role, with Wentz serving in a backup capacity.

Carson Wentz, 32, was the second overall pick by the Philadelphia Eagles in the 2016 NFL Draft. He has appeared in 108 games with 89 starts over eight NFL seasons, passing for 23,011 yards, 158 touchdowns and 67 interceptions.[3]

Kyler Murray, 28, was the first overall pick by the Arizona Cardinals in 2019. The dual-threat quarterback has started 75 of 79 career games, accumulating 20,739 passing yards, 118 touchdowns and 49 interceptions.[3]

Quarterback depth is a priority for Minnesota following injury challenges in recent seasons.

Sources

1. Minnesota Vikings. "J.J. McCarthy Selected No. 10 Overall by Vikings in 2024 NFL Draft". May 2, 2024. https://www.vikings.com/news/j-j-mccarthy-selected-no-10-overall-by-vikings-in-2024-nfl-draft
2. Minnesota Vikings. "J.J. McCarthy Has Torn Meniscus, To Have Surgery". August 20, 2024. https://www.vikings.com/news/mccarthy-knee-injury-update
3. Pro-Football-Reference.com. "Carson Wentz Career Stats". Accessed December 2024. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/W/WentCa00.htm
4. Pro-Football-Reference.com. "Kyler Murray Career Stats". Accessed December 2024. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/MurrKy00.htm