Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kyler Murray remains in the NFL concussion protocol following a helmet-to-helmet hit during Week 1, with veteran Carson Wentz emerging as the strong favorite to start Sunday against the Chicago Bears, according to reports from SKOR North and Heavy.com.
Murray exited the season opener against the Green Bay Packers after taking a heavy hit just 10 offensive snaps into the game, following an opening-play interception. According to SKOR North analyst Judd Zulgad, Murray was present at the team facility on Monday, September 14, to watch film, but his return depends entirely on medical clearance from independent neurologists overseeing the league’s concussion protocol.
Carson Wentz Prepares for First-Team Reps Ahead of Chicago Matchup
With Murray sidelined from on-field football activities, backup quarterback Carson Wentz is positioned to take the majority of practice repetitions with the first-team offense as the Vikings prepare for their Week 2 road game against their NFC North rivals in Chicago. Wentz stepped in relief of Murray on Sunday, throwing three touchdown passes to secure a 17-point victory for Minnesota.
Zulgad reported that Wentz is expected to draw the start under center as the team evaluates Murray’s recovery timeline. Concussion recoveries vary by individual, and teams typically exercise caution to prevent reinjury or prolonged symptoms when players absorb significant helmet impacts.
J.J. McCarthy Holds Backup Role as Vikings Evaluate Quarterback Depth
If Murray is unable to clear protocol before the team finalizes its game plan, rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy will serve as the primary backup behind Wentz. Max Dible of Heavy.com noted that how the offense performs in Chicago could influence the coaching staff’s decisions heading into Week 3, regardless of whether Murray regains full medical clearance by then.
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