By Sunday 
It’s official — the Carson Wentz comeback story has hit a wall. According to NFL Insider Ian Rapoport, the Minnesota Vikings quarterback will undergo season-ending surgery on his left shoulder, a devastating blow for both Wentz and a Vikings squad that had high hopes for a midseason turnaround.
For Wentz, this one hurts — literally and emotionally. After battling his way back into the league and showing flashes of the old Philly fire, this injury feels like déjà vu. The former No. 2 overall pick had been fighting to prove he still belongs in the NFL, carving out a gritty, redemption-style narrative that fans were beginning to root for. But now, that chapter is abruptly paused — maybe for good.
Rookie Time: J.J. McCarthy Steps Up
The silver lining? Vikings rookie J.J. McCarthy is set to make his return from an ankle injury and start Sunday against the Detroit Lions. The Michigan standout, who’s already captured fans’ attention with his poise and confidence, now has a golden opportunity to show he can lead this team when it matters most.
Minnesota’s season has been a rollercoaster — and this twist just took things up another notch. McCarthy’s mobility and fresh energy could be exactly what the Vikings need to shake things up. But replacing a seasoned veteran like Wentz under pressure? That’s no small task.
What’s Next for Wentz and the Vikings?
For Wentz, recovery will be the main focus — but questions about his future are bound to swirl. Can he still find his way back into a starting role next year? Or will this surgery mark the end of his NFL journey as we know it?
As for the Vikings, all eyes now turn to the rookie. J.J. McCarthy has the keys — and the road ahead just got real interesting.