Vikings Place Carson Wentz On Injured Reserve After Shoulder Surgery

The Minnesota Vikings have placed quarterback Carson Wentz on injured reserve due to a severe left shoulder injury that requires surgery, effectively ending his 2025 season. Wentz suffered the injury during the Week 5 game against the Cleveland Browns but continued to play in subsequent games, despite the pain. With Wentz sidelined, the Vikings are focusing on the return of J.J. McCarthy as their starting quarterback and are exploring backup options, including players with prior starting experience like Desmond Ridder and Taylor Heinicke. Additionally, the Vikings claimed tight end Ben Sims off waivers from the Green Bay Packers to bolster their roster after placing Wentz on injured reserve. Sims, who started his NFL career with the Vikings before joining the Packers, is expected to contribute this week, especially with tight end Josh Oliver dealing with a foot injury. This series of moves highlights the Vikings' efforts to manage injuries and maintain competitiveness as they head into the latter part of the season.