Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy shares backup duties with Carson Wentz after losing starting role
J.J. McCarthy, who lost the Vikings' starting quarterback competition, is now splitting second-string reps with veteran Carson Wentz, putting his roster spot in doubt.
The Minnesota Vikings have moved rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy from the sole backup role to sharing second-team reps with veteran Carson Wentz, according to ESPN reports following an 80-minute practice on Tuesday. McCarthy, who has been the No. 2 quarterback since early August, has not convinced coaches, and Wentz, who re-signed with the team on a one-year deal in March, is receiving increased playing time.
McCarthy, 23, is in the third year of a fully guaranteed four-year rookie contract typical for first-round picks. He has appeared in 10 NFL games, completing 57.6% of passes for 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. In the recent preseason loss to Baltimore, he threw a 50-yard pass to Tai Felton but was otherwise inaccurate and left the game after 18 snaps with an injury.
Carson Wentz, 33, returned to Minnesota after stints with several teams. Last season he played in five games for the Vikings, recording six touchdowns, five interceptions and 1,216 passing yards. The Vikings, like most NFL clubs, usually keep only two quarterbacks on the active roster.
Both quarterbacks could see further competition in the preseason finale against the Denver Broncos on Friday.