Vikings sticking with Wentz as QB1 vs. Chargers

EAGAN, Minn. — The Vikings are sticking with quarterback Carson Wentz for at least one more game, coach Kevin O’Connell said Tuesday, citing a short week of preparation before Minnesota plays Thursday night in Los Angeles against the Chargers.

J.J. McCarthy will continue his recovery from a high right ankle sprain by serving as the Vikings’ emergency No. 3 quarterback for the second consecutive week. Undrafted rookie Max Brosmer will be the backup behind Wentz.

Meanwhile, the Vikings opened the 21-day practice window for running back Aaron Jones, who has been on injured reserve since injuring his hamstring in Week 2. O’Connell said it was possible that Jones could be activated in time for Thursday night’s game. Jordan Mason has taken over as the Vikings’ primary running back, with 380 yards and four touchdowns this season, but the Vikings have missed Jones particularly in their passing game.

Lions.

Wentz, who has led the Vikings to a 2-2 record since replacing McCarthy, said Tuesday that he is not thinking about what might happen after this week.

«My mindset is to go win this game,» Wentz said, «and focus on the here and now. I don’t have a lot of time or energy to think beyond this one, quite frankly. So let the future take care of itself, but the mindset is to go 1-0 this week and find a way to get mentally and physically as ready as I can on a short week.»