Kyler Murray’s Vikings debut ended with a concussion. The free agent addition has made progress over the past few days with respect to his practice participation, but at least one full game on the sidelines is now in store.
Head coach Kevin O’Connell said on Friday that Murray will be out for Week 2. He added that Carson Wentz will get the nod against the Bears with J.J. McCarthy handling backup duties. O’Connell expects Murray to clear concussion protocol in time for next week, as noted by ESPN’s Kevin Seifert.
Earlier today, Seifert’s colleague Dan Graziano reported that Murray was able to handle a larger workload on Thursday than he was on Wednesday. Another step forward during today’s practice would of course be welcomed, but the Vikings have opted to sit their QB1 ahead of another divisional matchup. The NFL’s concussion protocol makes it possible – but very uncommon – for players to return to action after just one week.
Murray was added on a one-year deal shortly after his Cardinals release. The former No. 1 pick found himself in a competition with McCarthy for the starting spot through a large portion of the offseason, but as expected he emerged victorious. Murray’s arrival was expected to elevate the level of quarterback play for Minnesota compared to last season, but things obviously did not start as planned with his mid-game exit in Week 1. That resulted in Wentz finishing the contest after he moved ahead of McCarthy on the depth chart.
In Sunday’s win over the Packers, Wentz completed 12 of 19 passes for 133 yards and three touchdowns. The 33-year-old will look to deliver another strong showing against Chicago this week as the Vikings seek a 2-0 start. Even if that takes place, though, Murray will still be Minnesota’s preferred option under center. A Week 3 return should be in store provided he does not encounter any setbacks over the coming days.
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