Vikings sign Carson Wentz after trading Sam Howell to Eagles: Minnesota’s depth at QB behind JJ McCarthy

In a surprising last-minute move for the Minnesota Vikings, JJ McCarthy will no longer have Sam Howell as a teammate, as he heads to the Philadelphia Eagles. Meanwhile, the O’Connell’s squad secured the addition of veteran Carson Wentz, who now joins the team’s depth chart.

This way, the QB room of one of the franchises aiming to be a contender in the NFC North is now composed of the talented McCarthy, Carson Wentz, and Max Brosmer.

The arrival of the former Chiefs quarterback to the Vikings aims to provide support not only through experience but also on the field. It’s clear this team is going all-in to build on last season’s results and take things to the next level.

Sam Howell’s departure

After a brief stint in Minnesota where he saw limited action, it’s now official: Sam Howell is packing his bags and heading to the NFC East to join the Philadelphia Eagles — the reigning NFL champions.

“Trade! The #Vikings are sending QB Sam Howell to the #Eagles, sources tell me and @RapSheet. Minnesota gets a 2026 5th-round pick and a 2027 7th. Philadelphia gets a 2026 6th and Howell, an experienced backup for Jalen Hurts while Tanner McKee deals with an injury,” the insider Tom Pelissero reported via X.

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NFL News: Kevin O’Connell and Vikings could reportedly make huge trade to bring a very familiar face back to Minnesota

Wentz’s experience arrives in Minnesota

“After trading Sam Howell to the #Eagles, the #Vikings sign veteran Carson Wentz,” read the announcement from Jordan Schultz regarding the arrival of the veteran QB to Kevin O’Connell’s team.

Wentz already knows what it’s like to win a Vince Lombardi Trophy — a feat he achieved with the Eagles in Super Bowl LII, even though he missed the championship game itself against Tom Brady’s Patriots.

Another loss for the Vikings

Following Sam Howell’s departure, news broke in the last few hours that veteran Brett Rypien was released from the team, leaving the Vikings’ QB room with just three players moving forward—barring any further changes.

“The #Vikings are releasing QB Brett Rypien, per source. The respected veteran should have interest elsewhere, while Minnesota moves forward with a remodeled QB room of J.J. McCarthy, Carson Wentz and undrafted rookie Max Brosmer,” Tom Pelissero reported.