• The Carson Wentz Vikings story offers hope for a team battered by injuries and a 1-1 start in 2025.
• Wentz’s veteran experience could stabilize Minnesota’s struggling offense against the Cincinnati Bengals.
• Despite defensive woes, backups have a chance to shine under coach Kevin O’Connell’s leadership.
• Wentz’s personal connection to Minnesota adds emotional weight to this weekend’s game.

A Bumpy Start for Minnesota

Two weeks into the 2025 NFL season, the Minnesota Vikings are reeling. With up to nine starters potentially out for their game against the Cincinnati Bengals, the team’s early momentum has stalled. 

Young quarterback J.J. McCarthy is sidelined with an ankle sprain, the defense is struggling to stop the run, and Jordan Addison’s suspension lingers. Fans might be tempted to look ahead to the 2026 draft, but the Carson Wentz Vikings narrative suggests it’s too early to give up.

“This is the NFL,” said receiver Adam Thielen with a seasoned shrug. “Things are never perfect.”

Those words carry the weight of experience. In 2017, a 1-1 Vikings team, crushed in Pittsburgh, rallied behind backup Case Keenum to go 11-2 and reach the NFC Championship. In the NFL, setbacks are just setups for comebacks.

Adversity as Opportunity

Coach Kevin O’Connell sees challenges as chances to grow. “Adversity builds character,” he said, a sentiment proven by teams like the 49ers, who won with Mac Jones after losing Brock Purdy, or the Bengals, who rode Jake Browning’s 92-yard touchdown drive to a 2-0 start. 

Now, the Carson Wentz Vikings chapter begins as the 32-year-old steps in for his 100th career start, playing for the team he cheered for as a kid in North Dakota.

“Running out of that tunnel at U.S. Bank Stadium will hit different,” Wentz said, recalling childhood trips from Bismarck to the Metrodome, towel in hand, chanting “Skol.” “It’s a dream come true.”

Wentz’s Rollercoaster Career

The Carson Wentz Vikings story is one of resilience. Drafted second overall by the Eagles in 2016, Wentz was an MVP contender in 2017 until an ACL tear ended his season. 

Nick Foles took over, winning a Super Bowl in Minnesota’s stadium—a twist Wentz still feels. His career since has been uneven: a 3-8-1 record with Philly in 2020, 9-8 with the Colts in 2021, 2-5 with Washington in 2022, and brief stints with the Rams and Chiefs.

Wentz’s brother, Zach, shared why he keeps going. “I asked him, ‘Why still play?’ With a wife, three kids, and another due in November, it’s a fair question. But Carson believes in himself, and he’s always thought Minnesota could bring out his best.”

Vikings’ Challenges in 2025

The Vikings’ struggles run deep. Their offensive line, missing center Ryan Kelly and backup tackle Justin Skule, hopes for Christian Darrisaw’s return. 

They lead the NFL in sacks allowed (21.95%), average just 12 first downs per game (lowest in the league), and rank near the bottom in total offense (226 yards per game). Defensively, injuries to Harrison Smith, Blake Cashman, Jeff Okudah, and Andrew Van Ginkel have left them 31st against the run (168.5 yards per game).

Defensive coordinator Brian Flores remains unfazed. “Starters or backups, the talent gap is small,” he said. “It’s about who grabs the opportunity.”

Why Wentz Could Shine

Despite just four weeks with the team, Wentz has impressed coaches with his poise, especially in third-down drills when McCarthy was absent for his child’s birth. 

Star receiver Justin Jefferson sees a clear difference. “J.J.’s still learning,” he said. “Carson reads coverages and anticipates plays with a veteran’s eye. That experience is huge.”

Facing a Bengals team led by Jake Browning, who beat the Vikings in overtime in 2023, Wentz’s ability to keep drives alive could be a game-changer.

A Personal Homecoming

For Wentz, this game is deeply personal. Dozens of family and friends from North Dakota will fill the stands, some hunting for tickets after Wentz exhausted his supply. “It’s a big crew,” Zach laughed. “Carson’s playing with house money, and we’re all excited to see what he does.”

A Season Still Alive

The Vikings’ 1-1 record isn’t ideal, but with 15 games left, there’s time to recover. O’Connell’s history of reviving quarterbacks like Joshua Dobbs and Sam Darnold fuels optimism. The defense, under Flores, has the talent to rebound. 

As a football fan, I’m reminded of the 2009 Vikings, who rode Brett Favre’s veteran savvy to a 12-4 season. Wentz doesn’t need to be Favre—he just needs to be the steady hand Minnesota craves.

Vikings fans, don’t despair. The Carson Wentz Vikings era starts Sunday, and with his experience and hometown passion, it could be the spark this team needs. As the “Skol” chant echoes, Wentz has a chance to make history. Let’s see if he can deliver.

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Aliha

Hi, I’m Aliha! I’ve been a huge NFL fan for as long as I can remember, and I love sharing my thoughts, updates, and insights about the game. Whether it’s big plays, team news, or behind-the-scenes stories, writing about the NFL gives me a chance to connect with fellow fans who share the same passion for football.