Carson Wentz Reportedly Working Out for Vikings in NFL Free Agency After Chiefs Stint

Free-agent quarterback Carson Wentz is scheduled to work out for the Minnesota Vikings on Saturday, according to ESPN's Lindsey Thiry.

The 2017 Pro Bowler last suited up for the Kansas City Chiefs, making three appearances for them in 2024.

Wentz's workout doesn't bode well for Sam Howell.

The Athletic's Alec Lewis projected that Minnesota will cut Howell and tab undrafted free agent Max Brosmer as J.J. McCarthy's backup. The Vikings insider did cite Brosmer's "minimal experience" as a worthwhile consideration, though, given the team is counting on a starter who likewise hasn't logged a meaningful NFL snap yet.

A pursuit of Wentz makes it even more likely the team is moving on from Howell, who threw for went 12-of-18 for 118 yards and an interception in two preseason games.

Beyond the fact Wentz is a veteran alternative to Brosmer, ESPN's Kevin Seifert noted he might be able to make a quick adjustment to Minnesota's offensive scheme:

Another benefit to bringing Wentz aboard is that there would be no quarterback controversy if McCarthy is slow out of the gate.

Nobody will argue for Wentz to get a promotion when his stock has fallen as far as it has. The 32-year-old hasn't been a full-time starter since 2022, and he has thrown just 43 passes over the past two seasons.

A team could do worse than Wentz in a backup context, though, and having him in the QB room could benefit McCarthy's development.