The Minnesota Vikings continue to spiral with injuries at the quarterback position, and this time it’s veteran Carson Wentz who’s been hit. Looking ahead — and wanting to ensure JJ McCarthy has an experienced supporter — Kevin O’Connell’s squad has brought in a former Super Bowl champion.
John Wolford — who hoisted the Vince Lombardi Trophy alongside Matthew Stafford’s Rams — is joining the Vikings’ practice squad. From here on out, Minnesota isn’t leaving anything to chance.
The news was confirmed by NFL insider Tom Pelissero, who reported the move on his official X account (formerly Twitter). It’s an intriguing addition for a team looking to make a serious push for the NFC North crown.
“The Vikings are signing veteran QB John Wolford to the practice squad, per sources. Wolford was coached by Kevin O’Connell with the Rams and spent training camp this year with KOC protege Grant Udinski in Jacksonville. Some experienced depth behind J.J. McCarthy.”
John Wolford #13 of the Los Angeles Rams.
The former Wake Forest standout joins Minnesota after a stint with the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he played alongside Trevor Lawrence. Originally drafted by the New York Jets in 2018, Wolford has also spent time with the Arizona Hotshots, Los Angeles Rams, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
see also
Carson Wentz out for 2025: Who else is on the Vikings QB room behind JJ McCarthy?
A ring in his pocket
While Matthew Stafford orchestrated the championship drive, backup QB John Wolford secured his place as an NFL title winner as the Rams defeated the Cincinnati Bengals in Super Bowl LVI.
Wolford, who provided crucial depth behind Stafford throughout the season, celebrated his first Super Bowl ring after the team’s victory. The former Wake Forest standout has proven his value in the Rams’ quarterback room, adding the league’s most coveted hardware to his resume.
What happened to Carson Wentz?
The Minnesota Vikings have placed quarterback Carson Wentz on Injured Reserve, confirming he will undergo season-ending surgery on his left, non-throwing shoulder. Wentz, who was filling in for the injured J.J. McCarthy, reportedly played through a severe injury—including a dislocated shoulder, torn labrum, and fractured socket—over the last few games.
His remarkable toughness was on full display, but the pain, described by Wentz as “quite possibly” the worst of his career, proved too much. The veteran signal-caller’s season ends abruptly, leaving the QB depth chart in a state of flux as the Vikings look to return McCarthy to the starting lineup.
