Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell told reporters Monday that the team is expecting rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy to miss Week 3’s game against the Cincinnati Bengals with an ankle sprain.
O’Connell said veteran Carson Wentz would be the starter if McCarthy is indeed unable to play.
The 22-year-old rookie largely struggled in Sunday night’s 22-6 loss to the Atlanta Falcons, finishing 11-of-21 for 158 yards and two interceptions with zero touchdowns.
McCarthy and the Vikings’ offence struggled for three quarters in the opener in Week 1 against the Chicago Bears, but came alive in the fourth quarter to emerge with the win.
The Evanston, Ill., native was selected No. 10 overall out of the University of Michigan in the 2024 draft but missed all of last season due to a knee injury.
The Vikings sit 1-1 on the season, tied for second in the NFC North with the Detroit Lions.