J.J. McCarthy’s return from injury came after a painful setback in his second NFL start for the Minnesota Vikings. He suffered a high right ankle sprain in the Week 2 loss against the Atlanta Falcons. The early prognosis projected a 2-4 week recovery, effectively sidelining him through the Vikings’ next three games.

According to Polymarket Football, McCarthy returns to the helmet as QB3 behind Carson Wentz and as the designated emergency backup in week 7 against the Philadelphia Eagles.

“Good news for a Vikings team that thought he had potential to be active for Sunday,” the X post read.

In his two full appearances, McCarthy completed 24 of 41 passes for 301 yards, threw 2 touchdowns, and had 3 interceptions.  He added 50 rushing yards and 1 rushing touchdown so far. Against the Falcons, he absorbed six sacks and was picked off twice.

“I’m just going to do what I’m told and try to get better as fast as possible,” McCarthy told ESPN.

Displaying flashes of potential decision-making and mobility with a rough start. However, he will be on the sidelines until he is at 100% to perform better.

“I think the big thing is just getting him back on the grass in uniform, practicing, getting real live reps of a pass rush and taking drops and applying some of the things that he’s worked really hard on,” Kevin O’Connell said.

His development looks hopeful with the Vikings under Kevin O’Connell’s wing. That being said, Carson Wentz will make his 4th consecutive start this week.

Carson Wentz faces his former team in week 7

Carson Wentz returns to the starting role this week in a matchup against his former team, the Philadelphia Eagles. Wentz’s career spiraled after his exit from the Eagles.

According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, “#Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell announces that QB Carson Wentz will start vs. the #Eagles. Revenge game for Wentz.”

The Vikings signed Wentz on August 24 to replace Sam Howell. After a left shoulder injury against the Cleveland Browns in London, he returned with a harness. He was also seen with full participation at practice and ready for the next fixture.

Ranking 28 in the league, Wentz has led the Vikings to a 2-1 record in three starts. He has thrown for 759 yards, 5 touchdowns, and 2 interceptions, while completing 69.0 % of his passes.

“Earlier in my career, maybe I had a different feeling,” Wentz told ESPN.

Recently in London, he led a dramatic 25-of-34, 236-yard performance, capped by a clutch 12-yard scoring pass with 25 seconds left.

He has played against the Eagles once, losing 24-8 when he was with the Washington Commanders in 2022. The slinger benched by the Eagles during his time there would look to mark his place on the scoreboard. The Vikings will hope for steadier play and cleaner turnovers to seize momentum.