Vikings QB Carson Wentz Plays Through Shoulder Injury Before Season-Ending Surgery

Minnesota Vikings quarterback Carson Wentz played through a torn labrum and fractured shoulder socket sustained in Week 5, continuing for two more games while enduring significant pain and five sacks in a recent loss to the Chargers. Despite criticism of head coach Kevin O'Connell for allowing Wentz to stay in the game while trailing by a large margin, Wentz stated he never asked to be removed and did not feel unsafe, emphasizing his passion for playing meaningful football games. O'Connell defended his decision as a football call supported by medical staff and based on Wentz's willingness to remain on the field. Wentz set an NFL record this season by starting games for six different teams consecutively and expressed his joy in returning to a starting role, though he acknowledged the difficulty of playing through injury. With season-ending surgery imminent, Wentz is expected to shift to a mentoring role for rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy, helping the team's transition moving forward. The Vikings organization supports Wentz's commitment and values his leadership despite the challenges posed by his injuries.