Wentz Expected To Start In Dublin Over McCarthy

Coach Mike Tomlin said cornerback Joey Porter Jr. and safety DeShon Elliott could have a real chance to return for the Steelers’ Week 4 trip to Dublin as Pittsburgh tries to heal a banged-up secondary. On the Vikings’ side, rookie J.J. McCarthy is nursing a high-ankle sprain, is no longer in a boot and has been ruled out for this week; coach Kevin O’Connell said McCarthy must be fully healthy and able to practice before resuming the starting role. Veteran Carson Wentz replaced McCarthy, delivered a mistake-free performance in a 48-10 win over the Bengals, earned praise from O’Connell and others, and is expected to start in Dublin. Insiders say McCarthy will travel with the Vikings and that his return timeline is flexible, with estimates ranging from as soon as Week 5 to around Week 7. Wentz is operating as if he will be the starter for at least the next two weeks, with his continued role likely to depend on performance.