As the Minnesota Vikings gear up to face the Philadelphia Eagles this Sunday, quarterback Carson Wentz reflected on his past with the team that drafted him. Wentz, who played five seasons in Philadelphia, noted that his time there feels like “multiple lifetimes ago.” This sentiment comes as he prepares for a potential start against his former team, depending on the status of current starter J.J. McCarthy, who is recovering from an ankle injury.
Wentz’s journey in Philadelphia began when the Eagles selected him with the second overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft. His early career was marked by success, including a standout 2017 season where he was considered a frontrunner for the MVP award before suffering a torn ACL. This injury led to Nick Foles stepping in and ultimately guiding the Eagles to their first Super Bowl victory, a moment Wentz cherishes despite not being able to play.
Reflecting on his time with the Eagles, Wentz expressed gratitude for the experiences that shaped him both as a player and as a person. “You live, you learn, and you grow,” he remarked, emphasizing the life changes he underwent during his tenure, such as getting married and becoming a father. He acknowledged the abrupt end to his time with the team, which saw him benched for Jalen Hurts in 2020 and subsequently traded to the Indianapolis Colts in 2021.
In his current role with the Vikings, Wentz has stepped in for McCarthy, who has been nursing an injury since September 14. Wentz has led the team to a record of 2-1 in his three starts, showcasing his ability to adapt despite being in a backup position. When addressing his potential start against the Eagles, he stated, “Not really,” regarding any special significance it might hold.
“Quite frankly, having done both roles in my career so far, I have what works for me and what gets me ready to play, and that’s what I’ll be doing,” Wentz explained, underscoring his consistent preparation routine. He is focused on the game ahead rather than any nostalgia for Philadelphia, noting that the team has changed significantly since his departure.
Wentz’s career has taken several turns since leaving Philadelphia, including a stint with the Washington Commanders and brief backup roles with the Los Angeles Rams and Kansas City Chiefs. His journey illustrates the ups and downs of an NFL career, but Wentz remains appreciative of the opportunities that have come his way.
As the Vikings prepare for their matchup against the Eagles, all eyes will be on Wentz and whether he can deliver a strong performance against a team that holds a pivotal place in his career. With the game set for Sunday, the anticipation builds not only for the outcome but for the storyline of Wentz facing the franchise that once invested so heavily in him.