Sun Oct 05 14:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Vikings’ McCarthy Still Sidelined; Wentz to Start Against Browns Amidst O-Line Crisis

**WARE, England** – Rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy will miss his third consecutive start for the Minnesota Vikings due to a right high ankle sprain. Despite hopes for limited practice participation at their temporary facility near London, inclement weather Friday morning led coach Kevin O’Connell to keep McCarthy sidelined.

Carson Wentz is now slated to start Sunday’s game against the Cleveland Browns at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. O’Connell expressed satisfaction with Wentz’s preparation throughout the week and indicated a cautious approach to McCarthy’s return after the upcoming bye.

Adding to the Vikings’ challenges, the offensive line has been decimated by injuries. Starting center Ryan Kelly (concussion), backup center Michael Jurgens (hamstring), right tackle Brian O’Neill (knee), and left guard Donovan Jackson (wrist) have all been ruled out. Guard Blake Brandel will shift to center, a position he has never played in a game, while undrafted rookie Joe Huber is expected to start at left guard. Justin Skule will start at right tackle, further shaking up the offensive front.

Wentz, in his two previous starts, has thrown for 523 yards with four touchdowns and two interceptions, completing 44 of 66 passes. He will now have to navigate a Browns defense with a severely depleted offensive line. The Vikings will return to the field on October 19th against the Philadelphia Eagles.

This news comes amid debate surrounding Wentz as a starter, with some questioning his potential, considering other quarterbacks such as Aaron Rodgers would be a preferable option.

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