The Minnesota Vikings will start Carson Wentz at quarterback against the Chicago Bears on Sunday after ruling Kyler Murray out with a concussion.
The change under center
Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell confirmed the decision Friday. Murray practiced on a limited basis throughout the week but was not cleared to play after leaving Minnesota's season opener against Green Bay. O'Connell said Murray has made progress and is expected to clear the league's concussion protocol early next week.
Wentz will make the 100th regular-season start of his NFL career. He stepped in against the Packers and completed 12 of 19 passes for 133 yards and three touchdowns without an interception, helping Minnesota turn a 22-10 third-quarter deficit into a 39-22 win.
What it means for Chicago
Both Minnesota and Chicago enter the divisional matchup at 1-0. Wentz gives the Vikings an experienced replacement who already directed a comeback in the same offense, but the Bears now have a full game plan built around a less mobile quarterback than Murray.
J.J. McCarthy is expected to serve as Minnesota's backup. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. ET Sunday at Soldier Field.
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