Full Breakdown
Vikings Name Carson Wentz Starter for Week 2 After Kyler Murray Remains in Concussion Protocol
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
The Minnesota Vikings announced that veteran quarterback Carson Wentz will start the upcoming Sunday matchup against the Chicago Bears. Starting quarterback Kyler Murray was ruled out after failing to clear the NFL’s five-step concussion protocol following a head injury in the season-opening win over the Green Bay Packers.
Background & Context
Murray’s concussion occurred in the first quarter of the Packers game when a lowered shoulder from Green Bay safety Javon Bullard struck the side of his helmet as he attempted a slide. The hit drew an unnecessary-roughness penalty. Murray left the field under his own power, was evaluated, and entered the league’s concussion protocol. He participated in limited practice later in the week but did not receive medical clearance for Sunday.
Data & Statistics
- In the Packers game, Wentz completed 12 of 19 passes for 133 yards and three touchdowns, with no interceptions, leading a 29-point second-half surge.
- The Vikings finished that game 39–22, erasing a 22-10 deficit.
- J.J. McCarthy is listed as the emergency third-string quarterback and will serve as Wentz’s backup.
- Wide receiver Jauan Jennings is out for personal reasons; right tackle Brian O’Neill is questionable with a knee issue; running back Jordan Mason is on injured reserve with a broken thumb.
Official Statements & Responses
Head coach Kevin O’Connell said Murray is “in good spirits” after the Packers game and that the team is “taking it period-by-period” as they monitor his progress. O’Connell noted the Vikings expect to make a final decision by Friday.
Criticism & Opposition
No named critics or opposing officials offered substantive dissent in the available reports.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on Murray’s exact stage in the concussion protocol. Some describe him as a “limited practice participant” (suggesting phase 3), while others note he has not yet received clearance from an independent neurologist. The Vikings have not disclosed a definitive timeline for his return, leaving his availability for Week 3 against Tampa Bay uncertain.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Kyler showed a lot of progress,” — Kevin O’Connell, head coach
- “It was good to get a lot of reps in, and even just building the game plan and being part of those conversations a little bit more attentively this week,” — Carson Wentz, quarterback
- “Per sources: Kyler Murray continues to progress through concussion protocol. Did more in practice on Thursday than on Wednesday. Once he is cleared, the Vikings will decide whether to start him on Sunday or play it safe by holding him out for a week. Carson Wentz would start if Murray doesn't,” — Dan Graziano, NFL insider
What’s Next
The Vikings will evaluate Murray’s condition through Friday’s practice and will announce the final starter before the Sunday game. If cleared, Murray is expected to be available for the Week 3 contest at Tampa Bay. The team’s approach remains “period-by-period,” with medical staff guiding any decision on his return.