Sam Darnold has bounced back from his 3-interception performance in Week 10, where the Minnesota Vikings defeated the Jacksonville Jaguars. Over the past two weeks, he has thrown two touchdown passes without any interceptions. However, his recent success could make him a valuable target in free agency after the season.
Bleacher Report’s Kris Knox suggested Carson Wentz as a potential replacement for Darnold. Knox speculated that the Vikings might not retain Darnold beyond this season and could opt to hand the reins to their 2024 first-round pick, J.J. McCarthy. While McCarthy’s development is key, Knox believes it would benefit Minnesota to have a veteran presence as a mentor.
Wentz, despite seeming like an unlikely choice, could fit this role for a couple of reasons. Firstly, he spent the 2022 season with Sean McVay and the Rams, and since Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell is a McVay disciple, Wentz would be familiar with the system. Secondly, as he approaches 32, Wentz is now in the backup phase of his career and would focus on guiding McCarthy.
Knox also noted that Wentz’s experience, including being part of the 2017 Super Bowl-winning Eagles team and backing up Matthew Stafford and Patrick Mahomes, could make him a valuable mentor for McCarthy.
Wentz, who signed a one-year, $3.3 million deal with the Chiefs, is likely to be available at a low cost. Over his career, he has thrown for 22,292 yards, 153 touchdowns, and 67 interceptions, completing 62.7% of his passes. His veteran presence, combined with his familiarity with McCown (the Vikings’ QB coach), would provide McCarthy with valuable guidance.
While Wentz wouldn’t pose a threat to McCarthy’s starting role, McCarthy’s recovery from knee surgery could benefit from extra time and support. McCarthy tore his meniscus in the preseason and has undergone multiple surgeries, so bringing in Wentz could help ensure McCarthy returns fully healthy without rushing his recovery.
