Kyler Murray left the Minnesota Vikings’ Week 1 game against Green Bay late in the first quarter after taking a hard hit while sliding on a scramble. He was evaluated for a concussion and immediately ruled out for the remainder of the contest. Although Murray walked off under his own power, he was placed in the NFL’s concussion protocol following the game. The Vikings eventually defeated the Packers 39-22, but Murray’s status quickly became the team’s primary concern heading into Week 2.
Backup quarterback Carson Wentz replaced Murray during the first quarter and initially went 1-for-3 on the drive before Minnesota settled for a field goal. He quickly found a rhythm and finished 12 of 19 for 133 yards and three touchdowns without an interception. His best connection was with Justin Jefferson, who caught eight passes for 92 yards and two scores.
Minnesota is taking Murray’s recovery day by day, and he must clear concussion protocol before he can play against Chicago. ESPN’s Dan Graziano reported, “Based on what I’ve been able to gather, my sense is that Kyler Murray will start if he clears concussion protocol in time, and Carson Wentz is likely to start if Murray isn’t clear in time.”
“That sounds like a negative toward J.J. McCarthy, since it was him and not Wentz who competed with Murray for the starting job in camp.”
J.J. McCarthy Is QB3 as Vikings Face Bigger Issues Against Chicago
McCarthy entered Week 1 as the Vikings‘ third quarterback behind Murray and Wentz. ESPN’s reporting indicates that Wentz’s veteran experience is the reason Minnesota would turn to him if Murray cannot play. McCarthy would serve as the backup on game day in that scenario rather than stepping directly into the starting role.
While the Vikings won by 17 points, they were outgained 419-239 by Green Bay. The offense struggled to consistently move the ball over long distances, putting pressure on the defense and special teams to create favorable situations. Getting Jordan Mason and Aaron Jones more involved while spreading targets to Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison and Jalen Nailor should help Wentz against Chicago.
The Bears are coming off a 59-point performance in Week 1, led by Caleb Williams in an offense capable of creating explosive plays when coverage breaks down. Minnesota will need to generate consistent pressure on Williams without allowing him to escape the pocket and extend drives.
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