Vikings sign QB John Wolford to practice squad as insurance for J.J. McCarthy

The Minnesota Vikings added quarterback John Wolford to their practice squad on Wednesday. Wolford joins the fold alongside young quarterbacks J.J. McCarthy and Max Brosmer in the aftermath of Carson Wentz being placed on season-ending injured reserve.

Wolford is familiar with Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell from their time together with the Los Angeles Rams. This summer, he was also with the Jacksonville Jaguars, who use elements of the Vikings’ offensive system. Longtime Vikings staffer Grant Udinski became the Jags’ offensive coordinator this offseason.

The #Vikings have signed QB John Wolford to the practice squad.

📰: https://t.co/RxAhE4AX7b pic.twitter.com/K5rsBqs2d0

— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) October 29, 2025

Minnesota is in a youth movement at quarterback. McCarthy, who started the first two games of the season but missed the last five with an ankle injury, is expected to start this Sunday in Detroit against the Lions. Brosmer will be the primary backup. Wolford will serve as depth in the event of an emergency. It’s also possible that Wolford will be able to assist the quarterbacks and staff in game planning and preparation.

McCarthy’s availability and performance are the primary focuses for the rest of 2025. The former first-round pick has played two of the 24 regular-season games since he arrived; a torn meniscus ended his rookie year, and he suffered a high-ankle sprain in Week 2 against the Atlanta Falcons.

The Vikings have used the last month and a half as a runway for McCarthy to return to full health and to troubleshoot his mechanics. The goal, from O’Connell’s perspective, is to get McCarthy to play on time and be accurate when he’s throwing passes in rhythm. McCarthy’s ability to do that consistently will shape the direction of the organization at quarterback.

Brosmer, meanwhile, has impressed the Vikings staff from the outset. His aptitude as an undrafted free agent intrigued the Vikings, and his arm talent was evident this fall. O’Connell opted not to throw him into the fire last Thursday night in Los Angeles. However, he would likely receive a shot if McCarthy were to suffer another injury.