Brad Rempel-Imagn Images

Vikings Announce Quarterback Decision After J.J. McCarthy News

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated Dec 7, 2025 7:15 AM ET

The Minnesota Vikings (4-8) will host the Washington Commanders (3-9) Sunday at U.S. Bank Stadium. After a 26-0 shutout loss to the Seattle Seahawks in Week 13, Minnesota is eager to bounce back as they hunt desperately for momentum down the stretch. The Vikings’ offense, averaging 272.6 total yards per game this season, ranks among the weakest units in the NFL and needs to rediscover rhythm to avoid another disappointing outing.

Quarterback J.J. McCarthy has missed six games this season, including Week 13 due to a concussion. In his six starts this season, McCarthy has completed 54.1 % of his passes for 929 yards, six touchdowns and ten interceptions.

Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9).David Reginek-Imagn Images

However, the Vikings starting quarterback cleared concussion protocol this week and is expected to return after missing the loss to Seattle.

Now to ensure depth at the position, Minnesota announced it has elevated veteran John Wolford to the active roster before Sunday’s game. The 30‑year-old, undrafted out of Wake Forest, spent three seasons with the Los Angeles Rams and carries career totals of 626 passing yards, one touchdown, five interceptions and 87 rushing yards in seven games.

The #Vikings have signed QB John Wolford to the active roster.

CB Dwight McGlothern Jr. and DL Taki Taimani have been elevated to the active roster for tomorrow's game.

RB Ty Chandler has been downgraded to out. pic.twitter.com/gXVY6BfLL2
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) December 6, 2025

Wolford’s familiarity with head coach Kevin O’Connell, who once coached him with the Rams, offers Minnesota a seasoned backup option if McCarthy struggles or suffers another setback. The move also comes with running back Ty Chandler officially out Sunday, which could increase pressure on McCarthy and the passing attack.

Sunday’s game kicks off at 1:00 p.m. ET and will air nationally on Fox. Wolford is expected to serve as the primary backup as the Vikings attempt to stabilize their offense and avoid falling further in the standings.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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