Minnesota Vikings have added quarterback Carson Wentz to its roster on Sunday after the team traded Sam Howell to the Philadelphia Eagles, marking a significant shift in the NFL’s quarterback market. NFL journeyman Carson Wentz has signed a deal with his childhood team, returning to his roots as the Vikings prepare for the new season. After spending his last season with the Philadelphia Eagles, Wentz has played on four teams over the past four years, and now he joins the Vikings, making it five in five years in his NFL career. The terms of his contract remain undisclosed, but the move signals the Vikings’ intention to strengthen their quarterback depth. The decision to sign Wentz follows shortly after the trade of Sam Howell to the Eagles, where Minnesota received additional draft picks in return for the backup quarterback. This strategy has allowed the Vikings to add experienced depth to their quarterback room, which now includes projected starter J.J. McCarthy, veteran Brett Rypien, and rookie Max Brosmer, creating a competitive and versatile group for the upcoming season.
Wentz’s return to Minnesota comes with a sense of nostalgia as he lived in North Dakota for a significant portion of his childhood, making the Vikings the closest NFL franchise to his home. This emotional connection has likely played a role in his decision to return to the team that first inspired his passion for football. Despite his bumpy and roundabout career, Wentz has maintained a strong presence in the league, amassing 22,410 passing yards and 153 touchdowns in 98 career games. His career includes a Super Bowl victory with the Eagles in the 2017-18 season, even though he was a backup at the time and tore his ACL during an MVP-caliber season, which cut short his peak potential. The Vikings look to leverage Wentz’s experience and leadership to complement their young core and provide stability at the quarterback position, which has been a focal point for the team’s development strategy this offseason.
The trade that saw Sam Howell move to the Eagles also brought additional draft picks to Minnesota, further enhancing the team’s assets. This strategic move allows the Vikings to not only address their quarterback needs but also bolster their draft capital for future acquisitions. As the 2024 season approaches, the Vikings’ investment in their quarterback room reflects a long-term vision to build a competitive team capable of challenging for playoff contention. The addition of Wentz, who is known for his ability to perform under pressure and his leadership qualities, adds a valuable dimension to an already promising group of quarterbacks. This move is expected to have a positive impact on the Vikings’ overall performance and their ability to compete effectively in the highly competitive NFC landscape.