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O'Connell Names Carson Wentz Week 1 Backup, Demotes McCarthy

9/10/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Coach Kevin O'Connell named Carson Wentz the Week 1 backup behind starter Kyler Murray.
The move demoted 2024 No. 10 pick J.J. McCarthy to third-string quarterback.
O'Connell said the backup role is week-to-week and McCarthy will continue extensive work.
Wentz signed a one-year minimum $1.3 million contract after leaving the Arizona Cardinals.
Wentz posted 65.1% completions, 1,216 yards, six TDs and five INTs in five starts.

History

Historical Context

Since the Lions have historically used veteran backups for rookie starters, the pattern reappeared in 2009 when rookie Matthew Stafford began his career while veteran Daunte Culpepper served as the secondary option; Jon Kitna had started 16 games in both 2006 and 2007. In 2024 head coach Kevin O'Connell promoted veteran Carson Wentz as Week 1 backup, echoing that long-standing roster strategy.

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Story summary

Coach Kevin O'Connell named Carson Wentz the Week 1 backup behind starter Kyler Murray.
The move demoted 2024 No. 10 pick J.J. McCarthy to third-string quarterback.
O'Connell said the backup role is week-to-week and McCarthy will continue extensive work.
Wentz signed a one-year minimum $1.3 million contract after leaving the Arizona Cardinals.
Wentz posted 65.1% completions, 1,216 yards, six TDs and five INTs in five starts.

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