
Kyler Murray Ruled Out vs. Bears as Vikings Turn to Carson Wentz in Week 2
Kyler Murray has been ruled out for the Vikings’ Week 2 game against the Bears, leaving Carson Wentz to start with J.J. McCarthy as the backup.

Kyler Murray has been ruled out for the Vikings’ Week 2 game against the Bears, leaving Carson Wentz to start with J.J. McCarthy as the backup.

J.J. McCarthy will open 2026 as Minnesota’s third quarterback behind Kyler Murray and Carson Wentz. The move does not end his Vikings story, but it makes this season a pivotal test of whether the former No. 10 pick can reclaim a franchise role.

Harrison Smith is back with Minnesota on a one-year deal after months of uncertainty, giving the Vikings an experienced defensive centerpiece just before the Week 1 rivalry game with Green Bay.

Harrison Smith is returning to Minnesota for a 15th NFL season, giving the Vikings another year of leadership and flexibility in Brian Flores’ defense.

Kyler Murray won Minnesota’s quarterback job while J.J. McCarthy slipped to third on the depth chart. The 2026 Vikings are trying to stay competitive while quietly reshaping the franchise underneath him.