If McCarthy indeed is out next week, the Vikings will turn to veteran quarterback Carson Wentz, who is a former second-overall pick and in his 10th year in the NFL. The Vikings also announced running back Aaron Jones is dealing with a hamstring injury and will next week as well.

Minnesota Vikings quarterback JJ McCarthy may have just needed some positive reinforcement Monday from head coach Kevin O'Connell. The Vikings' Week 1

But Wentz has played well in the past, and he steps into a situation that was a career changer for Sam Darnold. It's not out of the question that Wentz plays well as long as McCarthy is out. Wentz has the benefit of facing the Bengals defense in his first start, which helps.

The Minnesota Vikings lost a rough game at home last night to the Atlanta Falcons, and their first-year starter, J.J. McCarthy, struggled to say the least. The Vikings mustered up a measly 198 yards of total offense, while the former Michigan Wolverine completed 11 of his 21 passes for 158 yards, with two interceptions and no touchdowns.

Kevin O'Connell has been viewed as a top head coach in the NFL since he took over the Minnesota Vikings. He has helped his team stay relevant

Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell speaks with reporters after Minnesota scored 21 fourth quarter points to rally for a 27-24 win over the Chicago Bears on Monday Night Football at Soldier Field. J.J. McCarthy responded from a 74-yard pick-6 to lead three fourth quarter scoring drives.

Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell was happy with Monday's win, but acknowledged that the team will have to improve going forward.

Monday's press conference from Kevin O'Connell added to the concerns in Minnesota, as he announced McCarthy is unlikely to play against the Bengals due to an ankle sprain and that running back Aaron Jones,