Minnesota Vikings QB Carson Wentz still appears on a hunting-focused Instagram account with his brothers after a 2023 photo of him with a dead black bear sparked outrage.
19:15 ET, 23 Oct 2025
Carson Wentz exits the field
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Carson Wentz once faced the wrath of animal lovers over a hunting trophy photo(Image: Stephen Maturen, Getty Images)
Former second overall pick Carson Wentz has returned to the starting quarterback role in 2025, joining the Minnesota Vikings and apparently winning over head coach Kevin O'Connell ahead of rookie JJ McCarthy.
The University of North Dakota graduate turned NFL signal-caller cultivated a passion for hunting during his childhood years in North Carolina. He made it a tradition to present his offensive linemen with hunting-related gifts each holiday season.
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Wentz faced backlash for a controversial post on his "Wentzbrosoutdoor" Instagram account during the summer of 2023, where he displayed a freshly-killed black bear from Alaska. Despite the uproar, he continues to make occasional posts on the account.
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"Got the opportunity to spot and stalk black bear in one of our new favorite places on earth- Alaska! Incredible trip and an incredible animal!" the post's caption declared.
While black bear hunting remains legal in Alaska with proper licensing — the state boasts more than 100,000 of these creatures — the comments section erupted with harsh criticism.
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"Such an incredible animal you felt you needed to shoot it and pose with its corpse? I'm not even particularly vocal about animal rights and even I think this is ******* pathetic," one fan wrote.
"Killing for fun. Glad the Eagles dumped you. Focus on getting better at throwing the ball than your "bucket list," another commenter said. Wentz experienced a similar situation in 2018 when he posted a photo of his dog alongside some deceased geese.
Wentz on the sideline
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Wentz has a passion for hunting(Image: Stephen Maturen/Getty Images)
After receiving a flurry of comments, he felt compelled to respond: "Appreciate that, but offensive and controversial?" he questioned.
"Two of the main things I tweet about are Jesus and hunting. That's what I'm passionate about, and that won't ever change! When you love something, you talk about it! Stay convicted about it and don't worry what others think!"
So, is Wentz still an active hunter?
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The Wentzbrosoutdoor Instagram account is buzzing with activity, primarily from Wentz's brothers Kyle and Zach. The account has amassed over 60,000 followers.
Carson Wentz makes occasional appearances, though most posts don't stir up enough engagement to cause any significant controversy.