Vikings Sign Super Bowl Champ After Carson Wentz Injury
The Minnesota Vikings are facing a challenging situation following the injury of quarterback Carson Wentz. To mitigate the impact, the team has signed Super Bowl champion John Wolford to their practice squad. The move emphasizes Minnesota’s commitment to maintaining depth at the quarterback position.
John Wolford’s Background
John Wolford, a notable addition to the Vikings, previously played for the Los Angeles Rams, where he earned a Super Bowl ring in February 2022. Under the coaching of Kevin O’Connell, who is now the head coach of the Vikings, Wolford contributed significantly to the Rams’ success in Super Bowl LVI, helping the team secure their victory over the Cincinnati Bengals.
Recent Career Moves
Before joining the Vikings, Wolford spent time with the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he worked with Grant Udinski, a protégé of O’Connell. He was originally drafted by the New York Jets in 2018 and has also played for teams like the Arizona Hotshots and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Carson Wentz’s Injury
The Vikings confirmed that Carson Wentz has been placed on Injured Reserve due to a severe shoulder injury. He is scheduled for surgery on his left, non-throwing shoulder, which has been affected by a dislocated shoulder, torn labrum, and fractured socket. Wentz’s determination to play through the pain has been commendable; however, his injury proves too significant, marking an abrupt end to his season.
Next Steps for the Vikings
With Wentz out of commission, the Vikings are focused on their quarterback depth. They aim to support J.J. McCarthy, who is also recovering from an injury. The addition of Wolford gives the team an experienced option as they navigate the season’s challenges.
Conclusion
The Vikings are not leaving their quarterback situation to chance. By signing John Wolford, they bolster their roster with an experienced player who has demonstrated his capabilities in high-pressure situations. The coming weeks will reveal how this decision impacts their quest for success in the NFC North.